Illinois law defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, whether they are verbal advances or physical action. 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 Oak Lawn 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, procedures for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.
There are also federal and Illinois laws that have appointed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate an Oak Lawn 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?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and establish without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too busy to handle individual claims. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Oak Lawn might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Illinois for sexual harassment matters.