The laws of Virginia define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions of either a verbal or physical nature. Common 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 who are located in Fredericksburg 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.

Furthermore, federal and Virginia laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Fredericksburg to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. 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 prove a sexual harassment claim without having any expertise in the applicable areas of law. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too overworked to handle individual claims. Because of this, working with a Fredericksburg attorney may be the ideal way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.