Sexual harassment in the workplace is a hot topic in Virginia. Although the laws are not different from other states, the sexual misconduct that is being reported seems to be changing. With more reporting and less leniency for offenders, many people are moving forward with sexual harassment lawsuits.
If you are being sexually harassed, you can file a civil lawsuit against your employer. A Sexual Harassment attorney virginia will be able to help you get protection and justice. These attorneys can guide you through the complexities of filing a sexual harassment claim. As more women, men, and LGBT people report their cases of sexual misconduct, many are fighting back with sexual harassment lawsuits against their employers. There are two types of sexual harassment in the workplaces in Virginia; quid pro quo and hostile work environment.
What is Quid Pro Quo?
Quid pro quo is a Latin phrase that literally translates to “something for something”. This type of workplace harassment usually takes the form of an offer or threat. Something may be offered up in return for sexual favors, such as a promotion, raise, position change, or new assignment. And sometimes, even with promises not to report you for other forms of misconduct on your behalf.
This type of sexual harassment has been happening for many years in every industry and organization but only recently has it become publicized. The fact that women are starting to speak out on the quid pro quo, a tactic that has been used for centuries by employers, makes this type of sexual harassment all the more important to address now.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment can happen to anyone at any level but is usually targeted toward those with less power in the organization.
What is a Hostile Work Environment?
A hostile work environment is defined as an atmosphere that is offensive, intimidating, or oppressive. This could be due to sexual comments, jokes, stories, or material. It could be unwelcome pranks, ridicule, or sexual gestures. A hostile work environment is also present when employees are made to feel like they can’t get promoted, because of their gender or their sexual orientation.
Hostile work environments are not a new phenomenon either, but with the rise in the number of people who are coming forward about it, this type of workplace harassment has risen in its seriousness. Employers should be able to recognize this type of misconduct and take action immediately before it goes too far.
