San Diego Sexual Harassment Lawyers
Keeping Your Rights Intact

It seems strange to think that as recently as 30 years ago, the concept of women in the workplace was a relatively new one for many people. While the seeming antiquity of such a thought is a compliment to the progress we've made, that certainly does not mean that sexual harassment does not still exist. There are certain situations that are so pervasive and problematic that help from San Diego sexual harassment lawyers is necessary.

Below you'll find information regarding the types of sexual harassment that can occur, the difficulties that can arise when attempting to prove this claim and finally how you should proceed if you or someone you love has suffered from the effects of sexual harassment in the workplace.

Types of Sexual Harassment

Generally speaking, sexual harassment occurs in the workplace, and there tend to be two types of sexual harassment that are more common than others. These types are:

1. Quid pro quo sexual harassment - The term 'quid pro quo' is derived from Latin and basically means 'something in exchange for something.' In terms of sexual harassment, it could mean that an employee will see advancement within her field or company if she agrees to sleep with a superior. Unfortunately, it could also mean that the employee will not enjoy such advancement if this request is not accepted.


2. Hostile work environment - A hostile work environment usually involves a series of statements, actions or incidents that create feelings of anxiety or worse in workers. While it is possible to create a hostile work environment with only one incident, this type of claim usually involves an overall culture in the workplace that's either expressly designed or tacitly allowed by lack of response that leaves people in a position of feeling vulnerable and mistreated.

Of course, other types of sexual harassment can occur, but those above represent the most common circumstances in which claims of sexual harassment will arise.

Challenges with Proving Sexual Harassment

Unfortunately, proving claims of sexual harassment can be more difficult than one would imagine. This is because of several factors, including:

1. Lack of evidence - Very few cases involve the production of company documents stating that sexual harassment is encouraged. This obvious reality means that in order for such a claim to be proven, intent on the part of those accused of such conduct and some sort of independent proof must be produced.


2. Lack of corroboration - In addition to the difficulties in producing documented evidence of sexual harassment, securing corroborating stories from other witnesses can also be difficult if these witnesses fear for their own advancement and job security.

If you or someone you love has suffered from this sort of unacceptable conduct, you need to contact the San Diego sexual harassment lawyers at the law firm of Mitchell | Gilleon today to schedule a free initial consultation.