According to Missouri law, sexual harassment is defined as the unwanted conduct which is of a sexual nature, and includes both verbal advances and physical acts Frequent 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 Missouri Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers who are located in Joplin can be required to create 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 true).

Additionally, federal and Missouri laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Joplin to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Employers are also prohibited under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.

How can a Missouri attorney help?

If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and show a claim involving sexual harassment. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Joplin might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Missouri for sexual harassment matters.