Illinois law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Common examples of sexual harassment done by employers include making sexual advances, creating an overtly sexual and offensive work environment, and making demands for sexual favors as a condition to promotion.
How does Illinois Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers who are located in Chicago can be required to implement and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. These policies may include contact information for an employee to report sexual harassment, the process for handling such claims, and the corrective measures for when a claim is proven.
Illinois and federal laws formed agencies that process claims involving sexual harassment. They have the authority to investigate Chicago workplaces regarding the conduct alleged in the complaints that have been filed with them. These laws also prohibit employers from firing employees or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.
How can a Illinois attorney help?
Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Chicago, as this may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of Illinois.