Sexual harassment is still a major issue that many people deal with in the workplace. Although sexual harassment can occur in many different ways, a common way is quid pro quo. Our California employment law attorneys explain what quid pro quo sexual harassment is and how to protect yourself if you experience it in the workplace.
What Does Quid Pro Quo Mean?
To better understand the concept of quid pro quo sexual harassment let us first define the meaning of the phrase "quid pro quo". Quid pro quo comes from the old language, Latin, and when literally translated means "something for something". Quid pro quo generally represents the idea that one favor or service is exchanged for another favor or service of equal value.
What is Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment?
Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when a supervisor seeks sexual favors in exchange for workplace benefits. For example, it would be considered quid pro quo if your supervisor requests sexual favors in exchange for a promotion and a raise.
To have a valid quid pro quo sexual harassment claim, you would need to prove that:
- A supervisor made unwanted sexual advances or other conduct
- The worker's job was affected by this harassing conduct
- The supervisor was offering workplace benefits in exchange for sexual favors
Workplace “benefits” may be different in every case. Common forms of workplace benefits offered include:
- Project of your choice
- Promotion
- Raise
- Extra working hours
- A more favorable working schedule
- Hiring for a position
- Not firing
Seek Legal Guidance
No employee should ever have to be placed in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation related to sexual harassment. If your employer offered workplace benefits in exchange for sexual favors, then you have a valid sexual harassment case. You can file a lawsuit against your employer for their unfair treatment and for the benefits denied to you; whether it was a promotion, a job, benefits, etc. Our team at Polaris Law Group is here to review your situation and help you develop a valid claim.
Contact us today at (888) 796-4010 to schedule a consultation!