Sexual harassment is defined under North Carolina law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. The types of sexual harassment that are most common when done by an employer are sexual advances, the exchange of workplace favoritism for sexual favors, and the creation of a hostile work environment that is overly sexual.

How does North Carolina Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Wake Forest 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. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing procedures, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.

There are also federal and North Carolina laws that have appointed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Wake Forest 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 North Carolina attorney help?

Investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Wake Forest can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that North Carolina has defined.