In the last few days, some news outlets have been abuzz with the TikTok video depicting two Manhattan lawyers locked in a kiss on a Central Park bench. Without expressing any opinion -- legal or otherwise -- about the specific lawyers in the TikTok video or their relationship, the incident provides a useful opportunity to remind readers of one risk associated with some workplace relationships: the potential for sexual harassment. Whatever your career, if your office romance has veered off into sexual harassment, you should take action and retain the services of a knowledgeable New York sexual harassment lawyer.
Job search site Indeed estimates that attorneys working for large firms average putting in 66 hours per week. At some firms, the number may be higher. This creates an environment where it is possible – if not likely – to spend far more waking hours with your work team than your spouse/partner and children. All of that shared time and shared experiences inevitably leads some lawyers to develop romantic affection for one another. These relationships are not without risk, however.
That is especially true when there is a power imbalance. For example, consider a hypothetical situation in which an equity partner is dating a junior associate. Law partners make a wide range of decisions that affect – positively or negatively – an associate’s potential for success at the firm. This includes things like introductions to key clients, case assignments, performance reviews, and consideration for promotion to partner.
A crucial danger potentially arises if the subordinate employee wants to end the relationship. The more senior (and more powerful) half of the couple may use various tactics to keep the other from leaving, and many of these may constitute quid pro quo harassment.
Quid Pro Quo Harassment
Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a more powerful figure offers something in exchange for sexual favors. They may promise to ensure the associate gets “all the plum case assignments” if the associate stays in the relationship. Alternatively, they may threaten to damage the associate’s career if the associate leaves the relationship. (Threats like “I’ll ruin your career if you leave me” are also an example of quid pro quo harassment.)
If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment at your legal job in New York City, be aware that you have many legal tools potentially available to you. Each of federal law (Title VII), state law (the New York State Human Rights Law), and city law (the New York City Human Rights Law) prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace. Of the three, the NYCHRL provides the strongest protections.
Also, keep in mind that, when it comes to the amount of damages you can recover in your lawsuit, it depends on what law (or laws) under which you have filed your lawsuit. A skilled legal advisor can help decide which law(s) will best benefit your case.
If you have encountered this type of workplace harassment, you owe it to yourself to take the steps necessary to hold the wrongdoers accountable and get recovery for the harm you have suffered. The experienced New York sexual harassment attorneys at Phillips & Associates, PLLC are here to help in that fight. Our team possesses the experience and know-how to deliver reliable advice and provide the effective advocacy you need and deserve. To find out more, contact us online or call (866) 229-9441 to set up a free and confidential consultation today.