The law of the state of West Virginia defines sexual harassment as conduct that is unwelcome, and encompasses both physical and verbal acts. 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 West Virginia Law Prohibit Sexual Harassment?
First of all, employers in the city of Charleston 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 procedures to be followed in filing a claim, and the remedies available when a claim successfully proven.
There are also agencies which are appointed by federal and West Virginia 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 Charleston are true. Such laws also make it illegal for employers to fire 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?
Without expertise in the applicable laws, both investigating and showing a sexual harassment claim can be difficult. It's not uncommon for federal investigators to be too busy to handle individual claims. Accordingly, hiring a lawyer in Charleston might be the best way to ensure that your claim is filed within the deadlines specified by West Virginia for sexual harassment matters.