Illinois law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical acts. Prevalent 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 of all, employers in the city of Northbrook may be required to implement company policies with regards to sexual harassment and post these in a visible location so that employees may be informed. 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 Northbrook workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Additionally, 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 establish a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Thus, hiring an attorney in Northbrook can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Illinois has defined.