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, New Freedom employers can be required to create company policies that specifically address sexual harassment in the workplace. These must be posted in a visible area such as a break room. 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 successful).

There are also federal and Pennsylvania laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a New Freedom workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. These laws also prohibit employers from firing employees or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a Pennsylvania attorney help?

It can be difficult to both investigate and establish a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Thus, hiring a New Freedom lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Pennsylvania.