Avoid the inappropriate – Supervisor’s dicey decisions drive harassment lawsuit

Description

Abstract: This article examines a sexual harassment and retaliation case that addresses whether the harassing conduct alleged was “sufficiently severe or pervasive” for the plaintiff to prevail. Although the answer in this case was no, a sidebar discusses a case with a different outcome. In any event, it’s critical that employers properly train and regularly remind supervisors to avoid inappropriate situations with subordinates. Those that fail to do so can lead an employer down a long road of litigation and attorneys’ fees. Ponte v. Steelcase, Inc., No. 13-2011, Jan. 31, 2014 (1st Cir.) Ayissi-Etoh v. Fannie Mae, No. 11-7127, April 5, 2013 (D.C. Cir.)