The law of the state of Washington defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal actions. 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 Washington Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First, employers in Auburn 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 agencies which are formed by federal and Washington law for the specific purpose of handling sexual harassment cases. Such agencies have the authority to investigate work sites to determine if the complaints they receive in Auburn 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 Washington attorney help?

Investigating and establishing a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. 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 Auburn can be the safest way to file your claim within the deadlines for sexual harassment claims that Washington has defined.