The laws of Rhode Island define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of either a verbal or physical nature. Some types 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 Rhode Island Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers who are located in Central Falls can be required to create and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. These policies may include contact information for an employee to report sexual harassment, the procedure for handling such claims, and the corrective measures for when a claim is proven.

The laws of the state of Rhode Island and federal law have both appointed agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given Central Falls work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. Furthermore, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a Rhode Island attorney help?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and showing a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Central Falls might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Rhode Island for sexual harassment matters.