Iowa law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Employers are most often 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, Oelwein employers can be required to create 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.

Furthermore, federal and Iowa laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Oelwein to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Employers are also barred under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.

How can a Iowa attorney help?

If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too overworked to handle individual claims. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Oelwein, as this may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of Iowa.