Iowa law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical action. Employers are most often 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, Polk County 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. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing procedures, 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 appointed agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given Polk County work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. Employers are also prohibited 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?

Investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Polk County might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Iowa for sexual harassment matters.