The laws of Virginia define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions 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 Buena Vista are often required to create 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 successful).

There are also federal and Virginia laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Buena Vista workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Employers are also barred under these laws from taking action in retaliation against an employee who has claimed sexual harassment, such as firing them or denying them a promotion.

How can a Virginia attorney help?

It can be difficult to both investigate and show a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. Thus, hiring an attorney in Buena Vista can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Virginia has defined.