Discrimination

WHAT IS DISCRIMINATION?

If you are treated unfavorably in your workplace due to your race, skin color, nationality, age, disability, religion or gender, you have experienced the legal definition of workplace discrimination. This phenomenon can happen during the hiring and firing processes as well as while you are actively on the job or are being considered for a promotion. In addition to the factors stated above, a person can also be discriminated against on the basis of pregnancy, genetic traits or because of their relationship to another person. Examples of this form of bias include the following:

  • Saying or suggesting that certain candidates are preferred over others in a job advertisement;
  • Excluding members of protected classes during job recruitment;
  • Denying benefits or bonuses to members of a protected class;
  • Paying members of a protected class less for substantially the same job;
  • Failing to give the same opportunities for vacation, pregnancy or retirement leave to someone in a protected class;
  • Unequal treatment for layoffs or promotions.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO HIRE THE RIGHT ATTORNEY FOR UNFAIR EMPLOYMENT TREATMENT CASES

It is not always easy to prove that you have not been treated fairly in the workplace even if you are a member of a protected class. Peer pressure to remain silent is often strong, as is the fear of retaliation from colleagues and management. There are even times when employers do not take allegations of unfair treatment seriously if a worker attempts to handle the situation on their own.

Having a knowledgeable employment attorney on your side can be invaluable during this often difficult and stressful process. A good lawyer will know the particular laws that are applicable in your situation and possesses the skills to draw up compelling documents that will cause management to take your claim seriously. Your legal adviser will also give you crucial information on how to gather any relevant witness, documentary and video evidence that may exist in reference to your beliefs.

HOW CAN AN ATTORNEY IN EMPLOYMENT LAW HELP ME AND PROTECT MY RIGHTS?

The culture of a workplace has a profound effect upon everyone who is employed there. Often, behaviors that people would normally never tolerate are considered to be the norm. Raising concerns is often seen by management and colleagues alike as much ado about nothing; at other times, it is dismissed out of hand, leaving the employee to feel alone and abandoned. Performing your job duties under these conditions can be difficult if not impossible.

Your employment law attorney will begin by evaluating your case. By the end of the investigation process, they will make recommendations as to whether they believe your situation falls under the legal definition of discrimination. Due to their expertise in the field, they can also give you wise guidance about what damages you can expect to receive. Perhaps most important, your rights will be protected because your lawyer will compel the employer to respond to your allegations in a timely manner so that the case can be resolved.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CASE OR CLAIM?

Assessing the legitimacy of your claim is one of the most valuable services your employment lawyer will provide. They will speak at length with you to obtain the details, help you understand and gather all types of evidence that will support your claims and take the case to the employer. In fact, there are many situations in which colleagues might come forward with similar concerns once they know that legal action is being taken.

Fighting unfair treatment in the workplace can be extremely complicated and stressful. It is a process that is best accomplished with the support and knowledge of an employment attorney such as the experienced professionals at the Lee Legal Group. Call us today to schedule a free consultation, and we will walk with you on every step of your journey toward a satisfactory outcome.