20 May 2021

Quid Pro Quo Harassment

Quid pro quo harassment is a dark exchange that workers should never experience. The Latin phrase “quid or quo” means “something for something.” In other words, it refers to an exchange between parties. 

For example, in the workplace, you exchange your labor for compensation and benefits. When it comes to harassment, though, this exchange becomes harmful and discriminatory. Oftentimes, this refers to a form of sexual harassment. 

Typically, an authority figure, such as a manager or supervisor, offers or suggests an employee receives a reward of some kind in exchange for a sexual favor. 

A fresh example is an accusation against a legislator in Oregon who implied he would vote for a colleague’s bill in exchange for sexual favors. 

Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment at Work

Sexual harassment is a form of discriminatory behavior. Specifically, it falls under sex discrimination. Employment law forbids discrimination in any aspect of the employer-employee relationship. This includes pay, job assignments, firing, fringe benefits, and any other condition or term of employment. 

Quid pro quo harassment is illegal regardless of whether it is implicit or explicit. Here are a few common examples of quid pro quo sexual harassment. 

  • Your manager or supervisor requests sexual favors as a condition of advancement or any other job opportunities. 
  • A manager threatens to terminate or transfer an employee or otherwise impact their quality of life if they do not perform or continue to provide sexual favors. 
  • Your supervisor promises you a promotion or a raise in exchange for sexual favors. 

How Do I Prove Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

When you want to claim quid pro quo harassment against someone, there are specific elements to prove in your case. Generally speaking, it’s helpful to hire a Houston employment lawyer to provide guidance throughout your case. 

As an experienced discrimination attorney in Houston, Clayton Craighead has the expertise and experience necessary to hold harassers accountable for their actions. When you find yourself in a precarious position, you need an advocate on your side to help you fight. 

Elements to Prove Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

  • The plaintiff (You) was an employee or applicant for a position with the defendant (employer). 
  • The defendant and alleged harasser made unwanted sexual advances towards the plaintiff OR engaged in unwanted physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature. 
  • Certain job benefits held a condition through words or conduct on the acceptance of sexual advances. Alternatively, the employment decisions of the defendant held a foundation of acceptance or rejection of sexual conduct. 
  • During the period of this alleged conduct, the defendant was an agent or supervisor with the company in question. 
  • The allegations harmed the plaintiff. 
  • The conduct was a substantial contributor to the plaintiff’s harm.

Taking Action Against Quid Pro Quo Harassment

If you find yourself the victim of this type of harassment, you have our sincere condolences. At the Craighead Law Firm, we strive to help employees hold their harassers accountable. When you need an advocate on your side, we are ready to guide you through the process and help you protect your rights and reputation. 

Typically, employees seeking justice for quid pro quo sexual harassment have to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Oftentimes, this process is intricate and overwhelming as you process your situation. 

As Houston employment attorneys, we have the experience necessary to guide you through the complaint process and ensure no box goes unchecked. 

An Employment Lawyer Houston Workers Trust

As an employment lawyer in Houston, Clayton Craighead is an advocate for wronged employees. If you are a victim of quid pro quo harassment, there are legal remedies available to you. 

  • Compensation for lost wages, employment opportunities, or benefits 
  • Damages for emotional distress
  • The job you lost (if you lost it or still want it)
  • Punitive damages for particularly egregious violations

As top-rated Houston employment lawyers, we fight for our clients. When you schedule a case evaluation with our team, we listen to you and help you fight for what you deserve. Schedule your consultation today and let us be your advocates as we hold harassers accountable for their actions! Call 832-798-1184 now!

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