Solicitor struck off the Roll for sexual misconduct

In this episode, the team discusses various cases of sexual misconduct, following the recent news of a ex-director of Gowling Law Firm being struck off the Roll of Solicitors for sexual harassment in the workplace.

This is the first time a solicitor has been struck off the Roll for non-criminal sexual misconduct in the workplace, following 70 allegations being made against him. The full reasons for the Solicitor’s Disciplinary Tribunal’s decision will be published in a written ruling later this summer. Victims felt controlled and manipulated due to perpetrator’s seniority and him taking advantage of this.

What counts as sexual harassment at work?

• Unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature.
• It must have either violated someone’s dignity, whether it was intended or not, or created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them, whether it was intended or not.
• It can be a one-off act or a pattern of behaviour, but it doesn’t have to be repeated.

The Law

If you are an independent contractor or an employee, then you are protected under the Equality Act 2010 from being sexually harassed in the workplace. This applies whether you are male or female.

It is unlawful for you to be subjected in the workplace to conduct which is sexual in nature and has the purpose or effect of, for example, violating your dignity in the workplace.