The law of the state of West Virginia 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 West Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?

First of all, employers in the city of Bluefield may be required to implement company policies with regards to sexual harassment and post these in a visible location so that employees may be informed. 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.

Furthermore, federal and West Virginia laws create specific agencies which are responsible for handling sexual harassment cases. The agencies are given authority to investigate workplaces in Bluefield to determine if the incidents alleged in the complaints they receive are true. 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 West Virginia attorney help?

A claim for sexual harassment may be difficult to investigate and establish without the proper expertise in the relevant areas of law. Federal investigators are often extremely overworked. Therefore, hiring a lawyer in Bluefield may be the ideal way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by West Virginia for sexual harassment matters.