Quid Pro Quo Harassment Attorneys in St. Louis, MO

Sedey Harper Westhoff Files Lawsuits Against Promise-Breaking Employers

At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we understand the negative impact workplace harassment can have on your professional and personal life. If you’re experiencing quid pro quo harassment in St. Louis, our knowledgeable and skilled attorneys are here to provide the legal representation you deserve. We are dedicated to helping victims of workplace harassment hold perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice is served.

Call (314) 819-0963 or complete our online contact form today to schedule a case evaluation with our team.

What is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

Quid pro quo harassment occurs when someone in a position of power demands sexual favors or other inappropriate actions in exchange for workplace benefits, such as promotions, pay increases, or job security. The Latin term "quid pro quo" means “this for that,” which highlights the coercive nature of this type of harassment.

Unlike other forms of harassment, quid pro quo harassment typically involves a direct abuse of power. It creates a hostile work environment and can result in significant emotional, financial, and professional harm to the victim. At Sedey Harper Westhoff, our skilled attorneys are well-versed in handling these cases and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

Examples of Quid Pro Quo Harassment

Quid pro quo harassment can take many forms, including:

• Promotions or Raises Tied to Sexual Favors: A supervisor tells an employee that they will receive a promotion or raise only if they agree to engage in sexual activities.
• Threats of Termination: A manager threatens to fire or demote an employee unless they comply with inappropriate requests.
• Favoritism in the Workplace: An employer provides better treatment, shifts, or projects to employees who acquiesce to their demands, while punishing those who refuse.
• Suggestive Comments or Advances: A superior makes persistent, unwanted advances and implies negative consequences for not reciprocating.

If you’ve experienced any of these situations, it’s crucial to speak with a qualified St. Louis quid pro quo harassment attorney. Our team will assess your case and guide you through the legal process to seek justice.

Common Quid Pro Quo Arrangements

Quid pro quo harassment is not limited to sexual demands. It can extend to other areas where power dynamics are exploited. Common quid pro quo arrangements include:

• Sexual Favors: Requests for sexual acts in exchange for promotions, raises, or continued employment.
• Political Endorsements or Contributions: Pressuring employees to support specific political candidates or causes in exchange for job security or benefits.
• Religious Conformity: Demanding participation in religious activities or adherence to certain beliefs as a condition for workplace advancement.
• Financial Exchanges: Requiring employees to pay money or provide gifts to maintain favorable treatment or avoid penalties.

These arrangements exploit the vulnerability of employees and create an unfair and oppressive work environment. If you’ve been subjected to any form of quid pro quo harassment, it’s essential to seek legal help immediately.

State & Federal Quid Pro Quo Laws

Both state and federal laws prohibit quid pro quo harassment in the workplace. These laws are designed to protect employees from being subjected to unlawful and discriminatory treatment.

Federal Laws

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers are prohibited from engaging in or allowing quid pro quo harassment. This law applies to employers with 15 or more employees and is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Victims of harassment can file a complaint with the EEOC, which may investigate the claim and pursue legal action on their behalf.

Missouri State Laws

In Missouri, the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA) offers similar protections against workplace harassment, including quid pro quo harassment. The MHRA applies to employers with six or more employees, providing broader coverage than federal law. Victims can file a complaint with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) and may also pursue a civil lawsuit.

Understanding these laws and how they apply to your situation can be complex. At Sedey Harper Westhoff, our attorneys have extensive experience navigating federal and state laws to ensure our clients receive the justice they deserve.

How to Prove Quid Pro Quo Harassment

Proving quid pro quo harassment can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Evidence is key to building a strong case. Some forms of evidence that may support your claim include:

• Documentation: Emails, text messages, or written notes that demonstrate inappropriate behavior or threats.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from coworkers or other individuals who witnessed the harassment.
• Performance Reviews: Records showing changes in evaluations or job duties after refusing advances.
• Recorded Conversations: If legally obtained, recordings can provide direct evidence of harassment.

Our attorneys will work with you to gather and present the necessary evidence, ensuring your case is as strong as possible.

Contact us today at (314) 819-0963 for more information about our employment law services.