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 frequently 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, Schenectady employers can be required to implement 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, procedures for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be 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 Schenectady are true. Additionally, 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?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and establish without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Thus, hiring a Schenectady lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of New York.