Sample Informal Resolution statement on Sexual Harassment

ABC's primary goal is to prevent or stop sexually harassing behavior whenever it occurs. Therefore, ABC has adopted an informal process by which sexual harassment complaints may be resolved by mutual agreement between the complainant and the person accused of sexual harassment. If informal resolution fails to resolve the matter to the complainant's satisfaction, the complainant may file a formal complaint with the ABC's Affirmative Action Officer. The implementation of this informal process is the responsibility of all central managers, and HR Staff hereinafter referred to collectively as "administrators." Under the informal process, the complainant brings the complaint, either verbally or in writing, to an administrator with authority over the person against whom the complaint is directed. The administrator is expected to review the complaint and explore avenues for resolution with the complainant. ABC recognizes that it must balance the complainant's right of privacy and the need to be fair to the alleged offender by notifying him or her of the allegation. The administrator has the discretion to determine when the situation requires notification of an alleged offender. The administrator also has the discretion to determine whether the situation warrants a meeting, either with the complainant and the alleged offender both present or with the complainant and alleged offender separately. Finally, the administrator has the discretion to determine whether investigation of the complaint requires interviewing other persons who may have witnessed the behavior in question. Administrators should attempt to resolve complaints expeditiously, but consistent with the severity or complexity of the matter. It is expected that the informal resolution process will be completed within three weeks after receipt of the complaint. The Affirmative Action Officer is available for guidance in this process. For purposes of annual reporting, the administrator shall maintain a written record of the complaint and of the informal resolution process undertaken, taking care to preserve the privacy rights of both the complainant and the alleged offender.