Workplace Discrimination: Protecting Your Legal Rights

Discrimination in the workplace undermines fairness and equality, making it difficult for employees to succeed based on their skills and efforts alone. Federal and state laws are in place to protect employees from discrimination and ensure equitable treatment. If you believe you’ve been subjected to workplace discrimination, understanding your legal rights is the first step toward justice.

What Is Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly or differently because of characteristics protected by law. Protected characteristics include:

• Race, color, or ethnicity
• Gender or sexual orientation
• Age (40 and older)
• Religion or creed
• Disability, pregnancy, or medical condition
• National origin or citizenship status

Discrimination can happen at any stage of employment, including hiring, promotions, pay, job assignments, and termination. It can also take the form of harassment, creating a hostile work environment.

Examples of Workplace Discrimination

Workplace discrimination may manifest in various ways, such as:

• Refusing to hire a qualified candidate because of their race, gender, or other protected characteristic.
• Denying promotions or pay raises to employees from certain demographic groups.
• Imposing stricter performance standards or disciplinary actions on specific individuals.
• Subjecting employees to harassment based on their protected characteristics.
• Retaliating against employees who report discrimination or participate in investigations.

Discriminatory practices can be overt or subtle but are unlawful under state and federal laws.

Legal Protections Against Workplace Discrimination

Several laws safeguard employees from workplace discrimination, including:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in workplaces with 15 or more employees.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects employees with disabilities from discrimination and requires reasonable accommodations.
• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Prohibits discrimination against employees aged 40 and older.
• Equal Pay Act: Ensures equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender.
• New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD): Provides broader protections against workplace discrimination in New Jersey, including smaller workplaces.

These laws aim to create equitable workplaces and provide remedies for employees who experience discrimination.

Steps to Take If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you’re a victim of workplace discrimination, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Document Incidents: Keep detailed records of discriminatory actions, including dates, times, witnesses, and any communications related to the incidents.
2. Report Internally: Follow your employer’s procedures for reporting discrimination, typically through HR or a designated compliance officer.
3. File a Complaint: If your employer fails to resolve the issue, submit a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights.
4. Seek Legal Guidance: Consult an experienced employment attorney to evaluate your case and explore potential legal remedies.

How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is committed to protecting employees from workplace discrimination. Our skilled attorneys can:

• Review your case to determine if your employer violated state or federal discrimination laws.
• Help you file complaints with the appropriate agencies and navigate the investigation process.
• Negotiate settlements to recover damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other harms.
• Represent you in court to hold your employer accountable for discriminatory practices.

We have a strong track record of securing justice for employees and fostering equitable workplace environments.

Take Action Against Workplace Discrimination

If you’ve been subjected to discrimination at work, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact
Castronovo & McKinney ,Workplace Discrimination Attorneys today for a consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.