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 Erie County can be required to establish and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be true).

Pennsylvania and federal laws appointed agencies that process claims involving sexual harassment. They have the authority to investigate Erie County workplaces regarding the conduct alleged in the complaints that have been filed with them. Also, these laws prohibit employers from firing an employee for alleging sexual harassment or taking any action in retaliation to 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 prove a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. So, hiring an Erie County lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Pennsylvania.