The law of the state of Washington defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal acts. 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 Gig Harbor are often required to create company policies regarding sexual conduct, which must be posted and visible to employees. The policies should at least include: contact information for the reporting of sexual harassment incidents, an outline of policies to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.

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 Gig Harbor are true. These laws also prohibit employers from firing employees or taking any retaliatory action against workers who have complained of sexual harassment.

How can a Washington attorney help?

Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and showing a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. The federal officers who investigate claims of sexual harassment are, unfortunately, frequently too busy to give much attention to any one claim. With that in mind, you should consider speaking with an attorney in Gig Harbor, as this may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed before the deadlines set by the laws of Washington.