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, Oil City 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. 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).

Additionally, federal and Pennsylvania laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Oil City to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. 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?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and establishing a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Thus, hiring an Oil City lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Pennsylvania.