Sexual harassment is defined by New York law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. Employers are most commonly involved in the following forms 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, employers in Melville are often required to formulate company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of policies to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

There are also agencies which are established 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 Melville are true. Furthermore, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to a claim.

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 show a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Melville may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by New York for sexual harassment matters.