The laws of Pennsylvania define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of either a verbal or physical nature. The types of sexual harassment that are most common when done by an employer are sexual advances, the exchange of workplace favoritism for sexual favors, and the creation of a hostile work environment that is overly sexual.

How does Pennsylvania Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers in Allegheny County are often required to implement 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 procedures to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

There are also federal and Pennsylvania laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate an Allegheny County workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Furthermore, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a Pennsylvania attorney help?

Investigating and showing a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Allegheny County might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Pennsylvania for sexual harassment matters.