The laws of Pennsylvania define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions of either a verbal or physical nature. The forms 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 who are located in Bucks County can be required to implement and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. 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 Pennsylvania laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Bucks County workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Additionally, 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?

If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and establish a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Thus, hiring an attorney in Bucks County can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Pennsylvania has defined.