The laws of Virginia define sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including actions of either a verbal or physical nature. Prevalent 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 Salem can be required to formulate and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. 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 established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Salem workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Additionally, 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?
If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and establish a claim involving sexual harassment. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too overworked to handle individual claims. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Salem may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Virginia for sexual harassment matters.