The law of the state of Washington defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal actions. The types 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 who are located in Medical Lake can be required to create and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, procedures for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.

There are also federal and Washington laws that have created agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Medical Lake 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 Washington 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. Federal investigators are often very overworked. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Medical Lake might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by Washington for sexual harassment matters.