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 Des Plaines can be required to formulate and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, process for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.
There are also federal and Illinois laws that have established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Des Plaines 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 Illinois attorney help?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and prove without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. Federal investigators are often extremely overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Des Plaines may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Illinois for sexual harassment matters.