Sexual harassment is defined under New York law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. Employers are most often involved in the following types of sexual harassment acts: demanding sexual favors in exchange for promotions, creating a sexually offensive work environment, and making sexual advances.

How does New York Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Cold Spring Harbor employers may be required to establish company policies concerning sexual conduct and post them for employees to see. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of procedures to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

Additionally, federal and New York laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Cold Spring Harbor to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. 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 New York attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and prove 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. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Cold Spring Harbor can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that New York has defined.