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 Harwood Heights can be required to formulate and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be successful).

There are also federal and Illinois laws that have established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Harwood Heights workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Also, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a Illinois 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. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. So, hiring a Harwood Heights lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Illinois.