The law of the state of Washington 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 Washington Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First, employers who are located in Mount Vernon can be required to implement and visibly post company policies regulating sexual conduct. Such policies should include items such as contact information for reporting harassment incidents, process for filing claims, and any corrective or preventative measures should a claim be proven.
There are also federal and Washington laws that have formed agencies to handle sexual harassment claims. These agencies have authority to investigate a Mount Vernon workplace for the sexual harassment conduct that is alleged in the complaints they receive. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to dismiss an employee for filing a harassment claim or to take any other action based on retaliation against the employee.
How can a Washington attorney help?
Investigating and proving a sexual harassment claim might be difficult without consulting someone with expertise in the relevant laws. The federal agencies that handle initial claims of sexual harassment are frequently understaffed and overworked. Because of this, working with a Mount Vernon attorney may be the ideal way to make sure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.