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, Lancaster employers can be required to establish company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. 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.
There are also agencies which are appointed by federal and Pennsylvania law for the specific purpose of handling sexual harassment cases. Such agencies have the authority to investigate work sites to determine if the complaints they receive in Lancaster are true. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to fire an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.
How can a Pennsylvania attorney help?
Investigating and establishing a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. It's fairly common for federal officials who investigate these matters to be overworked. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Lancaster, as this might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of Pennsylvania.