The laws of Pennsylvania define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions of either a verbal or physical nature. Some forms of sexual harassment that are most commonly committed by an employer include exchanging favoritism for sexual favors, the creation of a hostile work environment of a sexual nature, and sexual advances.

How does Pennsylvania Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, Vandergrift employers may be required to implement company policies concerning sexual conduct and post them for employees to see. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of policies to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

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 Vandergrift to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Additionally, 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 establish a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Vandergrift may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Pennsylvania for sexual harassment matters.