The laws of Virginia define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of either a verbal or physical nature. Frequent examples of sexual harassment done by employers include making sexual advances, creating an overtly sexual and offensive work environment, and making demands for sexual favors as a condition to promotion.

How does Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers in Bristol are often required to establish company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. Matters covered by such policies should include contact information used by employees to report incidents, handling procedures for claims, and corrective measures (in the event that a claim turns out to be true).

There are also federal and Virginia laws that have appointed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Bristol workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Furthermore, under these laws, employers may not fire or retaliate against any employee who has alleged sexual harassment in a claim.

How can a Virginia 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 a Bristol lawyer can be the surest way to file your sexual harassment claim within the deadlines specified by the state of Virginia.