Unfortunately, sexual harassment is still something many male and female employees have to deal with. No individual should have to come to work and deal with this type of harassment or any harassment. 

 

What is Sexual Harassment? 
Sexual harassment is any conduct that request sexual favors or advances and creates an uncomfortable work place. There are two types of sexual harassment, quid pro quo and hostile work environment. 

 

Quid pro quo
Quid pro quo happens when employer offers promotions, raises, job duties in exchange for a sexual demand. This can also include exchange to receive the employment or remain in the company. 

 

Hostile Work Environment
Sexual harassment can lead to a hostile work environment. This happens when an employee is subject to sexual or demeaning jokes, inappropriate comments, unwanted touching, the display of inappropriate picture. 

 

Examples of sexual harassment:

• Unwanted sexual advances 

• Request for sexual favors 

• Offensive or vulgar jokes 

• Inappropriate and unwanted physical contact 

• Comments on an individual’s appearance 

• Asking questions about an individual’s sexual preferences

• Asking an individual about their sexual history

• Sharing inappropriate pictures and videos

• Sending messages either through email, paper, or text that are suggestive

• Comments about an individual’s marital status

Who is liable? 
When it comes to sexual harassment employers are liable for different reasons. The first being if the employer is committing the harassment themselves. The employer is also liable is they were aware that other employees were engaging in the harassment and failed to take action.

If you believe that you are being sexually harassed at the workplace, contact the attorneys of Lepera + Associates, PC. They can help you bring a claim against the party and help you stand up for your rights.