Iowa law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Employers are most frequently 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, Ottumwa 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.

The laws of the state of Iowa and federal law have both formed agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given Ottumwa work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. 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 not uncommon for federal investigators to be too overworked to handle individual claims. Because of this, working with an Ottumwa attorney may be the ideal way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.