What is sexual harassment, and how do we spot it in today’s modern world?

While the #MeToo social movement did shine an essential light on sexual harassment in the workplace, there’s still plenty of work to be done, and sadly, these stories of abuse still happen.

Today, we will discuss one specific type of sexual harassment called quid pro quo harassment. Let’s take a closer look at what this term means and how to know if it’s something that may be going on in your place of employment.

What Does Quid Pro Quo Mean?

Quid pro quo is a Latin term that literally means “this for that”. It is commonly used to denote a situation in which someone does something for someone else (a favor of some sort) to gain favor or benefit them in return.

When it comes to sexual harassment in the workplace, it’s easy to see how this idea plays out. The quintessential example of quid pro quo harassment is the example of a supervisor telling a subordinate that they will give them a promotion or a raise if they have sexual intercourse with them.

Now, this is a relatively clear-cut violation of the law. However, this might not be how every case plays out. Many people experience a variation on this pattern, but seeing this type of situation can sometimes be challenging.

For example, employees today might be encouraged by their supervisors to work hard for a promotion or a raise — and at the same time, that supervisor is asking them out on dates, texting them outside of work, or sending them inappropriate photos or kissy face emojis, or telling them that they want to hang out socially.

Any of these actions could be deemed sexual harassment and may lead to a viable claim of quid pro quo harassment against your employer and your harasser.

If you think that you may have been (or currently are) involved in a quid pro quo situation at work, hiring an attorney to represent you can help. You may very well have a case.

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Find Out More With Knoll Law Group

Knoll Law Group has been an active law firm for over 30 years. We are proud to represent individuals who have fallen victim to sexual harassment in the workplace. If you have any further questions about quid pro quo harassment, contact us here or please call our office at (818) 610-0955 for a free legal consultation.