According to Massachusetts law, sexual harassment is defined as the unwanted conduct which is of a sexual nature, and includes both verbal advances and physical acts Sexual advances, creating a hostile work environment that is blatantly sexual in nature, and sexual advances are some of the more common types of sexual harassment amongst employers.

How does Massachusetts Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Wayland employers can be required to establish company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. 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 Massachusetts laws that have appointed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Wayland workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to fire an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.

How can a Massachusetts attorney help?

It can be difficult to both investigate and prove a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. Federal investigators are often very overworked. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Wayland, as this might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of Massachusetts.