Birmingham Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment Lawyer

The most commonly recognized form of sexual harassment is known as quid pro quo sexual harassment. As a matter of law, it is prohibited to make employment and associated job benefits contingent on the employee’s performance of sexual favors to an employer, supervisor or agent of the employer that is in the position of authority to make decisions on employment actions. Likewise, it is unlawful for an employer to deny an employee a job benefit based on that employee’s rejection of a sexual advance or request for sexual favors.

Benefits commonly promised in quid pro quo harassment cases include:

• Beneficial shift or work assignments
• Salary increases
• Promotions
• Adjusted performance expectations

At Michel | King, we are focused on helping those who are the victims of quid pro quo sexual harassment and sex discrimination in Birmingham and throughout Alabama. Let us help you to establish your case so justice can be served for the harassment you have had to endure.

Signs of Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

Identifying quid pro quo sexual harassment early can protect your rights and help you take appropriate action. Here are some common signs and red flags that might indicate you are experiencing quid pro quo sexual harassment:

• Unwanted Sexual Advances: If you have been subjected to unsolicited sexual advances or comments that make you uncomfortable, this is a primary indicator.
• Employment Contingent on Sexual Favors: Receiving direct or indirect suggestions that your job, promotion, or salary advancement depends on engaging in a sexual relationship or acts is another significant sign.
• Threats of Job Loss or Demotion: When your refusal of sexual favors is met with threats of termination, demotion, or other negative employment actions, it clearly crosses the boundaries set by law.
• Imbalanced Treatment: Noticing that employees who submit to sexual requests receive better treatment, like more favorable job assignments or higher performance ratings compared to those who refuse, is a tell-tale sign.
• Persistent Pressure for Dates or Intimacy: Frequent pressures to engage in dating or intimate relationships, especially when it comes from a person of authority or supervisor, are classic indicators.
• Promises of Rewards for Sexual Compliance: Any promises of rewards like bonuses, better work shifts, or enhanced job standing contingent on sexual compliance should raise immediate red flags.

Steps to Take If You Recognize These Signs

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward protecting yourself. Document all incidents in detail, maintain evidence, and consider speaking with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer at Michel | King to explore your options. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of a positive outcome.

Liability for Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

When an employee establishes a case of sexual harassment, employers then must show that the sexual harassment did not occur. If the employer cannot meet this burden of proof, they can be held strictly liable for quid pro quo sexual harassment because it is deemed that supervisors, managers, and agents were acting directly on behalf of the employer.

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace in Birmingham

If you believe you are the victim of quid pro quo sexual harassment, you may be owed back pay, future economic losses, and compensatory damages such as medical expenses, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. At times, punitive damages may also be awarded if it is established that the employer acted with malice or reckless indifference to your rights.

When you contact Michel | King, we will review the facts of your situation with you and advise you on the appropriate course of action in your case which may include bringing an action on your behalf against your employer to protect your rights and recover compensation. Whether you are a man or a woman, it makes no difference, sexual harassment can occur regardless of gender. If you have been the victim of quid pro quo sexual harassment, we’re here to help you fight back.