Sample Formal Complaint Procedure on Sexual Harassment

An employee who believes that she or he has been subjected to sexual harassment may file a formal complaint with ABC's Affirmative Action Office (AAO). A formal complaint involves the submission of a written statement to the AAO describing the incident or incidents as completely as possible. Specific guidelines for the submission of a complaint may be obtained from the AAO, and the complainant may visit with the AAO prior to filing a formal complaint. Once a signed complaint is filed with the AAO, the AAO will investigate the complaint or direct that the complaint be investigated by an appropriate investigating officer. The investigating officer and the accused shall be from the same department within ABC. Recommended investigating officers include: Director of Personnel, Department Manager, or Supervisor (a complaint against the President will be referred to the Board of Directors for investigation and disposition). The person against whom the complaint is filed will be notified. The investigation will include interviews with the complainant or complainants, with the person against whom the complaint has been brought, and with anyone else who might have information that would be helpful. Based on this investigation, the AAO will submit findings of facts, as well as a recommendation with respect to appropriate action to resolve the complaint, to the unit administrator of the person against whom the complaint was filed, with a copy to be provided to the alleged offender. Any employee against whom disciplinary action is taken as a result of a formal complaint may appeal that action in accordance with the appeals procedure defined in the appropriate employee handbook.