Sexual Harassment

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace.  There are two types of sexual harassment: "quid pro quo" and "hostile work environment." 

• Quid pro quo harassment occurs where (a) submission to sexual conduct is made a condition of employment or (b) rejection of sexual conduct is used to make employment-based decisions .
• Hostile work environment involves a sexually-charged, offensive, and often abusive work environment.  The conduct must be severe or pervasive in order to constitute a hostile work environment.

Sexual harassment is common and often goes unreported.  A recent study found that 1 in 4 women have been harassed in the workplace.  Although women experience harassment more frequently, either gender can be a victim of sexual harassment.  

Some examples of sexual harassment include (but are not limited to):

• Visual displays - inappropriate drawings, posters, emails, or texts.
• Verbal or written conduct - comments, jokes, or statements about your clothing, body, or behavior; sexually-based threats; repeatedly asking you out; or spreading rumors about your sex life.
• Nonverbal conduct - derogatory gestures, facial expressions, following you, or leering at you. 
• Physical conduct - inappropriate touching, impeding or blocking movement, rape, or assault.

If you've experienced any of the above, contact an attorney today to talk about your options.