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 often 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, Rye employers can be required to create company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, process for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.

There are also federal and New York laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Rye workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. 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 prove 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. So, hiring a Rye lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of New York.