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Sexual harassment is an unlawful activity under both federal and local laws in Seattle, United States. It is largely described as any unwelcome conduct that's sexual in nature, such as unwelcome sexual advances, lewd jokes, inappropriate touching, or displaying explicit materials. Both the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Washington State Human Rights Commission work to prevent such violations. The legal consequences can include civil and sometimes criminal penalties, depending on the nature of the offense.
People often require the services of a lawyer when they are the victims of sexual harassment and the associated behavior is ongoing, not being addressed by management, or they have been retaliated against due to their report. In such cases, a lawyer can provide guidance on how to appropriately document incidents, handle interactions with the perpetrator and employers, and when to engage the relevant authorities. For those accused of sexual harassment, a lawyer can assist in understanding the charges, implications, and develop a suitable defense strategy.
Seattle, as part of Washington State, abides by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 1964 and Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD), RCW 49.60. These laws prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace or educational institutes, irrespective of the size of the establishment. Under these statutes, both employers and employees can be held liable for sexual harassment, and it protects contractual employees, unpaid interns, as well as traditional employees.
In Seattle, sexual harassment can be any unwelcome behavior that's sexual in nature. It can range from verbal (sexual comments or jokes, requests for sexual favors) to non-verbal (unwanted touching, suggestive looks) or even visual (displaying lascivious photos or drawings).
Report the incident to your management or your company’s human resources department, and ensure it is documented. If the harassment continues or if your management does not take appropriate action, consider getting legal advice.
If you're falsely accused, it's crucial to consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and plan a course of action. Cohesive evidence and a clear representation of your side of the story are critical to resolve such situations.
Seattle follows the federal laws and Washington State's laws regarding sexual harassment, which includes Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 1964 and the Washington Law Against Discrimination.
Yes, if your employer has allowed the harassment to occur or has not taken reasonable steps to prevent or stop it, you can sue your employer.
Additional resources for those seeking assistance or more information include the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Washington State Human Rights Commission, and King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC). These organizations can provide invaluable knowledge, support services, and even referrals for legal counsel.
If you are the victim of sexual harassment, first report the incident to your employer or the relevant authority at your place of work or education. If the issues persist, consult with a lawyer to understand your options. If you have been accused, equally, it is advisable to seek legal counsel promptly to protect your rights. Lastly, keep all records and evidence related to the case, as they will be necessary for any potential legal proceedings.
