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, Monroeville employers can be required to formulate company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing policies, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.
Furthermore, federal and Pennsylvania laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Monroeville to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Employers are also barred under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.
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. Federal investigators are often extremely overworked. So, hiring a Monroeville lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Pennsylvania.