The law of the state of Virginia defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal advances. The forms of sexual harassment that are most common when done by an employer are sexual advances, the exchange of workplace favoritism for sexual favors, and the creation of a hostile work environment that is overly sexual.
How does Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers in Winchester are often required to formulate company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. Company polices might include such matters as contact information to be used in reporting sexual harassment, filing policies, and remedial measures in the event that a claim is proven to be true.
There are also federal and Virginia laws that have established agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Winchester workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. These laws also prohibit employers from firing employees or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.
How can a Virginia attorney help?
If you do not have any expertise in the applicable laws, it may be difficult to investigate and prove a claim involving sexual harassment. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Winchester may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Virginia for sexual harassment matters.