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 prevalent types of sexual harassment amongst employers.

How does Massachusetts Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Whitman 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 agencies which are appointed by federal and Massachusetts law for the specific purpose of handling sexual harassment cases. Such agencies have the authority to investigate work sites to determine if the complaints they receive in Whitman are true. Additionally, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.

How can a Massachusetts 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 often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Whitman might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Massachusetts for sexual harassment matters.