Los Angeles Quid Pro Quo Harassment Lawyer
Quid pro quo is a Latin phrase that literally translates into “this for that.” Quid pro quo harassment then, occurs when one person demands or requests sexual favors in exchange for a certain employment benefit. For example, a supervisor may tell an employee that they will receive a raise if the employee engages in a sexual act with them. Contrary to what many people think, quid pro quo harassment does still occur in the workplace. If you believe your employer has violated your rights, our Los Angeles quid pro quo harassment lawyer can help restore them.
Types of Quid Pro Quo Harassment
Quid pro quo harassment typically happens in one of two ways. The first is when someone in an authoritative position offers an incentive to an employee in exchange for a sexual act. The above example is this type of quid pro quo harassment. The other type of quid pro quo harassment occurs when a supervisor or employer threatens the worker with harmful work-related action, such as firing them.
Regardless of the type of quid pro quo harassment that occurs, all cases do involve something similar. These cases typically involve comments made about an employee’s physical figure, inappropriate and graphic discussions of sexual acts, and sexual advances that are unwelcome and unwanted.
Many people think that quid pro quo harassment in the workplace is always obvious. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. For example, an employer may not directly refer to a sexual act in exchange for an employment benefit, but they may merely hint at it. In these cases, quid pro quo harassment has still occurred even though it was not as direct as it may be in other instances.
Your Options After Quid Pro Quo Harassment has Occurred
The law in California, as well as federal law, prohibits quid pro quo harassment in the workplace. Sadly, not all employers comply with these laws and they violate the rights of employees. If you feel as though you have suffered harassment while on the job, you have three options. These include:
- You can try and informally resolve the dispute with your employer
- You can file an administrative claim to pursue damages, or financial compensation, or
- You can file a lawsuit in court
The option you choose may affect the compensatory damages you are entitled to, possible punitive damages that are available, and if you can be reinstated in your current job. Before taking any action, it is best to speak to a Los Angeles quid pro quo harassment lawyer who can advise on the best course of action to take.
Call Our Quid Pro Quo Harassment Lawyer in Los Angeles Today
If you feel as though you have been harassed at work, you do have legal options. At The Garza Firm, our Los Angeles quid pro quo harassment lawyer can advise on what those are, and give you the best chance of obtaining the full and fair compensation you deserve. Call us today at (949) 570-8350 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our seasoned attorneys.
