Sexual harassment is defined under Ohio law as unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature, which includes both verbal and physical actions. Common examples of sexual harassment done by employers include making sexual advances, creating an overtly sexual and offensive work environment, and making demands for sexual favors as a condition to promotion.

How does Ohio Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers in Portsmouth are often required to establish company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing procedures, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.

The laws of the state of Ohio and federal law have both created agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given Portsmouth work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. These laws also prohibit employers from firing workers or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a Ohio attorney help?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Portsmouth might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Ohio for sexual harassment matters.