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 Westerly 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.

Rhode Island and federal laws created agencies that process claims involving sexual harassment. They have the authority to investigate Westerly workplaces regarding the conduct alleged in the complaints that have been filed with them. These laws also prohibit employers from firing workers or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a Rhode Island 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 agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are often understaffed and overworked. Because of this, working with a Westerly attorney might be the best way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.