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 frequently 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, Oneida employers can be required to formulate company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. These policies may include contact information for an employee to report sexual harassment, the process for handling such claims, and the corrective measures for when a claim is proven.

Furthermore, 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 Oneida to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Employers are also barred 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 New York attorney help?

It can be difficult to both investigate and establish a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Oneida, as this may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of New York.