How Employment Lawyers Help with Discrimination in the Workplace
Workplace discrimination is a serious violation of employees’ rights and can create a hostile or unsafe work environment. Discriminatory practices based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics are not only unethical but also illegal under both federal and state laws. If you are experiencing discrimination at work, it’s important to understand your rights and seek legal counsel to help you take action and seek justice.
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we specialize in employment discrimination cases. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to helping employees who have been subjected to workplace discrimination. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against in any form, this article will help you understand how an employment lawyer can help you fight discrimination and protect your rights in the workplace.
What is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer or coworker treats an employee unfairly based on their race, gender, age, religion, disability, or other protected characteristic. Discrimination can manifest in many ways, including biased hiring practices, unequal pay, harassment, denial of promotion opportunities, or wrongful termination.
Some of the most common types of workplace discrimination include:
- Race and Ethnic Discrimination: Treating an employee unfairly because of their race, color, or national origin. This includes racial slurs, stereotyping, or discriminatory treatment in hiring, firing, promotions, or pay.
- Gender and Sex Discrimination: Discriminating against an employee based on their gender, including unequal pay, job assignments, or opportunities based on sex. This can also include discrimination against employees for being pregnant or for having a gender identity that doesn’t conform to traditional expectations.
- Age Discrimination: Discriminating against an employee who is 40 years or older, typically in hiring, firing, or promotions. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees over 40 from discrimination based on age.
- Disability Discrimination: Treating an employee unfairly due to their physical or mental disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship to the employer.
- Religious Discrimination: Discriminating against an employee because of their religious beliefs or practices. This includes not accommodating an employee’s religious needs, such as prayer times, or creating a hostile environment due to their religion.
- Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Discrimination: Discriminating against an employee because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, including making inappropriate comments, refusing to hire someone, or failing to provide equal opportunities because of these factors.
How Can an Employment Lawyer Help with Discrimination Claims?
If you are experiencing discrimination at work, it’s essential to consult with an employment lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and take the necessary steps to seek justice. Here’s how an employment lawyer can assist you with a discrimination claim:
- Assessing Your Case: An employment lawyer will evaluate the circumstances of your situation to determine whether you have a valid discrimination claim. They will analyze the facts, such as the actions or comments made by your employer or coworkers, and review your employer’s policies to see if they have violated any laws.
- Filing a Complaint: If discrimination has occurred, your lawyer will help you file a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), your state’s human rights agency, or your employer’s internal complaint procedure. They will ensure that all necessary deadlines are met and that your case is handled properly.
- Negotiating a Settlement: Many discrimination cases are resolved through settlement, rather than going to court. Your lawyer will negotiate with your employer or their legal team to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for any damages, such as lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Your lawyer will also work to ensure that any discriminatory practices are corrected within your workplace.
- Litigating Your Case: If a settlement is not possible, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will handle all aspects of the litigation process, from filing the lawsuit to presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and arguing on your behalf. A skilled employment lawyer will fight for your rights and seek the best possible outcome for your case.
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney for Your Discrimination Claim?
At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we are passionate about helping employees who have been subjected to discrimination in the workplace. Our experienced team of attorneys has a proven track record of success in handling discrimination claims and fighting for the rights of employees across New Jersey and New York. Whether you’re dealing with racial, gender, age, or disability discrimination, we are committed to helping you get the justice you deserve.
We understand that discrimination can cause serious emotional distress, harm to your career, and financial losses. Our team will work closely with you to gather evidence, build a strong case, and fight for your rights in court or through negotiation. We are committed to providing personalized legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome for your discrimination case.
If you believe you have been a victim of workplace discrimination, don’t wait to take action. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today to schedule a consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and help you take the necessary steps to seek justice.
To schedule a consultation with one of our experienced employment lawyers, contact Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys today. We are here to help protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.
Contact Us
Visit our offices in Morristown, NJ or New York, NY, or call us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced employment lawyers. We are here to help you navigate your discrimination claim and protect your rights in the workplace.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830, New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781