Iowa law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Employers are most commonly involved in the following forms 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, Mason City employers can be required to formulate company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing policies, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.

There are also federal and Iowa laws that have established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Mason City workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to dismiss an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.

How can a Iowa attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and show without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these issues to be overworked. Therefore, hiring a Mason City lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Iowa.