The laws of South Carolina 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 South Carolina Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers who are located in Sumter can be required to establish and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of procedures to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

Additionally, federal and South Carolina laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Sumter to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. Furthermore, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a South Carolina attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and show without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, often too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Therefore, hiring an attorney in Sumter can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that South Carolina has defined.