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 who are located in Cumberland County can be required to create and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. 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.

Pennsylvania and federal laws created agencies that process claims involving sexual harassment. They have the authority to investigate Cumberland County workplaces regarding the conduct alleged in the complaints that have been filed with them. 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 often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Cumberland County might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Pennsylvania for sexual harassment matters.