Sexual Harassment

Sexual Harassment

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), there are two types of sexual harassment claims: “quid pro quo” and “hostile work environment”.

Quid pro quo harassment involves expressed or implied demands for sexual favors in exchange for some benefit (a promotion, pay increase, etc.) or to avoid some detriment (termination, demotion, etc.) in the workplace. By definition, it can be perpetrated only by someone in a position of power or authority over another (e.g., manager or supervisor over a subordinate).

Hostile work environment harassment is sexual or other discriminatory conduct that is so severe and pervasive that it interferes with an individual’s ability to perform their job; creates an intimidating, offensive, threatening or humiliating work environment; or causes a situation where a person’s psychological well-being is adversely affected. Hostile work environment harassment can be perpetrated by anyone in the work environment including a peer, supervisor, subordinate, vendor, customer or contractor. An employee can claim sexual harassment under one or both sexual harassment types.

If you believe you have been subjected to sexual harassment, contact Harvey Law Firm today.