Iowa law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical action. Employers are most frequently involved in the following types of sexual harassment acts: demanding sexual favors in exchange for promotions, creating a sexually offensive work environment, and making sexual advances.

How does Iowa Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Harlan employers can be required to implement company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, procedures for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.

There are also agencies which are created by federal and Iowa law for the specific purpose of handling sexual harassment cases. Such agencies have the authority to investigate work sites to determine if the complaints they receive in Harlan are true. Additionally, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.

How can a Iowa attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and establish without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Harlan can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Iowa has defined.