Sexual Harassment

Confidential RECOVERY- Sexual harassment – Allegations of hostile work environment and quid pro quo harassment from direct supervisor – Emotional distress.

Monmouth County

The plaintiff, who had previously worked in claims for the defendant for an approximate six-year period, related that shortly after she returned from maternity leave, she was placed in a new department working in the field of Information Technology. The plaintiff contended that she was one of the few female employees in the department and that she would frequently hear sexually provocative comments about women in general and at times, about her in particular.

The plaintiff also contended that her direct supervisor indicated to her on several occasions that he would be easier to work with if a relationship ensued and that he had suggested a location on the premises in which they could find privacy. The plaintiff maintained that she made several complaints, including one to the Human Resources Department and that it was suggested to her that it would be easier for her to deal with the situation if she did not pursue the matter.

The defendant denied that such advisements were given or that Human Resources had knowledge of the alleged situation. The defendant further contended that any comments alleged in the hostile work environment aspect were jocular in nature and that a reasonable woman would not find them offensive. The defendant also maintained that only playful bantering had occurred between the plaintiff and the supervisor and denied that she was subjected to quid pro quo harassment.

The plaintiff contended that after the conduct continued, she resigned and maintained that a constructive termination had occurred. The plaintiff contended that she sustained severe emotional distress, required therapy and the plaintiff’s therapist would have indicated that the distress essentially resolved. The plaintiff did not pursue any income claims.

The case settled prior to the institution of suit for Confidential.

Reference

Plt: Baldwin. 11-01.

The Law Office of Miller & Gaudio PC in Red Bank.