The laws of Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers who are located in East Providence can be required to formulate and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. These policies may include contact information for an employee to report sexual harassment, the process 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 formed agencies with the authority to investigate sexual harassment claims. These agencies conduct investigations at a given East Providence work site in order to verify if a complaint that they have received is true or not. Additionally, 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?
A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and establish without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. Federal investigators are often extremely overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in East Providence may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Rhode Island for sexual harassment matters.