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, Cortland employers may be required to formulate 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.

There are also agencies which are created by federal and New York 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 Cortland are true. These laws also prohibit employers from firing workers or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a New York attorney help?

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