Hostile Environment vs. Quid Pro Quo
Even in times of great emotional duress, it is helpful to know how to communicate your problems effectively to get the right kind of assistance. You do not need to be an auto mechanic to be able to describe the problem you are having.
The same principle applies in civil rights law. Many people who feel they are being sexually harassed in the workplace will refer to the Internet to try and understand exactly how to express their issue. A good example is people understanding the difference between quid pro quo and a hostile environment.
Quid Pro Quo
A quid pro quo sexual harassment situation is generally considered an event where a manager offers a subordinate a reward such as a promotion or raise in exchange for sexual favors. In order for the situation to be considered quid pro quo, the aggressor must be someone who has the authority to make good on promises.
Hostile Environment
A hostile environment is one where sexual harassment and situations of quid pro quo happen on a regular basis. In general, a hostile environment is considered one where certain forms of sexual harassment are almost accepted as part of the company culture.
In a hostile environment, the sexual harassment is not limited to just acts of quid pro quo. The hostile environment can include sexual coercion, sexual intimidation, and many other form of sexual harassment or even sexual assault.
What Should I Do?
In a situation of quid pro quo, you might want to consider utilizing the company’s sexual harassment reporting policies to get justice. In New York, every business is required by law to have posted a formal policy complete with compliant forms that you may fill out. When notified, the company may, as it should, take swift and decisive action such that the problem ceases.
When sexual harassment has become an accepted way of doing business, it can be a huge task for one person to try and tackle on their own. With a hostile environment, you might be best served by consulting with an experienced sexual harassment attorney.
Our firm has experience in helping the victims of quid pro quo sexual harassment and hostile environments. Each situation is different and each person is treated as an individual. We will review your situation with you and make recommendations as we feel appropriate. We can be by your side throughout the entire process, and we can suggest legal action that might get you the maximum amount of compensation available.