Quid Pro Quo Harassment Attorneys
When Your Job Is Tied To Sexual Demands
If someone with power over your job has tied opportunities, money, or basic job security to sexual contact, you may be facing quid pro quo harassment. Many people in this position feel trapped, ashamed, and unsure whether the law will protect them. You are not alone in wondering what, if anything, you can safely do next.
At Holtz Matthews LLP, we focus our work on people confronting workplace sexual harassment, sexual assault, and discrimination. We understand the pressure that comes when a supervisor, producer, executive, or gatekeeper uses their influence to demand sexual access. Our attorneys work to combine careful legal strategy with deep respect for your privacy, autonomy, and emotional safety.
We offer free, confidential consultations and handle these matters on a contingency fee basis. You do not pay legal fees unless we recover compensation. When you contact us, we listen first, then walk you through your options in clear, practical terms.
Call (818) 791-0555 today to schedule a confidential consultation.
We provide a trusted space to discuss your case openly, while also safeguarding your rights, maintaining your dignity and offering the legal expertise necessary to pursue justice.
What Is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?
"Quid pro quo" is a Latin phrase meaning "this for that." In the employment context, it refers to situations where a supervisor, manager, or someone with authority requests sexual favors or other inappropriate conduct in exchange for workplace benefits—or threatens negative employment consequences if those demands are refused.
Unlike a hostile work environment claim, quid pro quo harassment typically involves a direct connection between unwelcome conduct and an employment decision.
Examples of employment actions that may be tied to quid pro quo harassment include:
- Hiring decisions
- Promotions
- Raises or bonuses
- Preferred assignments
- Scheduling
- Performance evaluations
- Continued employment
- Demotions
- Termination
A single incident may be enough to support a quid pro quo harassment claim if it results in a tangible employment action.
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$65M RESULT
Client was the primary witness for the Wall Street Journal expose, entitled, "Dozens of People Recount Pattern of Sexual Misconduct by Las Vegas Mogul Steve Wynn", resulting in $55 million in fines levied against the company, a $10 million fine against Steve Wynn, and his removal from the gaming industry. The Nevada Gaming Control Board also changed its rules governing gaming licensees.
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$6.8M Result
Client was harassed and manipulated by high-level casino executives and forced to facilitate trafficking of women. The matter was resolved for a high seven-figure sum.
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$2.5M Result
Client was groped and propositioned by a top-level executive of a large multi-national company. The matter was resolved for a multi seven-figure sum.
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$2.4M Result
Client who worked for highly successful celebrity was discriminated against and harassed by company. The matter was resolved for multi seven-figure sum.
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$2.1M Result
Client, a female executive for a major studio and production company, was harassed and sexually assaulted by her male superiors. The matter was resolved for a multi seven-figure sum.
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$1.3M Result
Client, a high-level female executive for a very successful privately owned apparel company, was terminated after reporting sexual impropriety by the owner. The matter was resolved for a seven-figure sum.
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$1.2M Result
Client was sexually assaulted by several men when she was a minor and then trafficked to others. The matter was resolved for a seven-figure sum.
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$65M RESULT
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$6.8M Result
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$2.5M Result
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$2.4M Result
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$2.1M Result
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$1.3M Result
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$1.2M Result
At Holtz Matthews LLP, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Michael is a true gem!"In the very first five minutes of our conversation about my case, it was evident that Michael is different. We hadn't even started, and Michael was on the case, so well prepared, and so familiar with every aspect of the situation. Michael's informed perspective and knowledge of the industry is clear in every assessment he makes, and his wealth of experience saved me from many potential disasters. I am truly grateful to Michael for his generosity, and for him patiently and clearly explaining the important strategic details that ensured the success of my case.Former Client
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"Hard working, extremely diligent litigator"
Highest ethical and moral standards and someone who actually cares about his clients. In my experience, these are attributes often lacking from Los Angeles litigators.
Former Client -
"Michael is an outstanding attorney."
I have the highest regard for his capabilities.
Former Client -
"Jordan is Extremely Helpful."We must have spoken to 7 different lawyers and Jordan had the best information and most concise plan of action. You can tell he is very knowledgeable in his field.Former Client
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"Jordan is a skilled and enthusiastic lawyer that I have had the pleasure of working closely with."I recommend Jordan to anyone who is seeking legal advice in Entertainment.Fellow Attorney in Community
Common Examples of Quid Pro Quo
Quid pro quo harassment can occur in virtually any workplace or industry.
Common examples include:
- Promotions in Exchange for Sexual Favors: A manager tells an employee they will receive a promotion only if they agree to go on dates or engage in sexual activity.
- Threats of Termination: A supervisor implies that refusing romantic or sexual advances will result in losing a job.
- Better Schedules or Assignments: An employee is promised preferred shifts, remote work opportunities, or desirable projects if they engage in inappropriate conduct.
- Pay Raises or Bonuses: A supervisor offers increased compensation conditioned upon personal or sexual favors.
- Performance Evaluations: An employee receives an unfair negative review after rejecting unwelcome advances.
- Hiring Decisions: A job applicant is told they must comply with inappropriate requests before receiving a job offer.
- Demotions or Discipline: Employees who refuse advances may suddenly face disciplinary action, reduced responsibilities, or demotions without legitimate justification.
Who Can Commit Quid Pro Quo Harassment?
These claims most commonly involve someone with authority over the employee, including:
- Supervisors
- Managers
- Department heads
- Executives
- Business owners
- Individuals with hiring or firing authority
Because quid pro quo harassment involves employment decisions, the person engaging in the misconduct generally has some level of authority to affect the employee's job.
State & Federal Protections from Quid Pro Quo
California provides some of the strongest workplace protections in the country.
California Law
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits workplace harassment based on protected characteristics, including sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and more.
FEHA generally applies broadly to employers and allows employees to pursue claims for unlawful harassment and retaliation.
Federal Law
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits workplace discrimination and sexual harassment, including quid pro quo harassment.
Employees who experience unlawful harassment may have rights under both California and federal law depending on the circumstances of their case.
Our California quid pro quo harassment attorney can determine which legal avenues may apply.
You Are note alone
How We Can Support You
How Holtz Matthews LLP Protects Your Career and Future
Navigating a quid pro quo harassment claim can feel overwhelming. You may fear retaliation, social isolation at work, or the stress of a legal battle. At Holtz Matthews LLP, we approach every case with deep empathy, absolute confidentiality, and relentless legal strategy.
Our dedicated team will handle the heavy lifting by collecting digital forensics, interviewing witnesses, filing complaints with state and federal agencies, and aggressively negotiating or litigating on your behalf. We fight to ensure that your voice is heard, your career is restored, and your financial well-being is secured.
To speak with our team in confidence, contact us today at (818) 791-0555.
