Discrimination Law
Unlawful discrimination occurs when an employee suffers an adverse action, such as a termination, because of their association with a protected class. Adverse actions also can include the failure to hire, denied promotions, demotions, disparate treatment or the creation of a hostile work environment.
Workplace discrimination is prohibited by a variety of Federal and State laws. Protected categories include, but are not limited to:
- race
- color
- gender/sex
- sexual orientation
- age
- religion
- national origin
- disability
- pregnancy
- military service
- bankruptcy status
Discrimination laws also provide potections for employees making complaints about discrimination. If you are terminated or demoted for filing a complaint, you may have an additional claim for retaliation.
If you beleive that you have been a victim of discrimination or retaliation, you should consult immediately with an experience employment attorney in your area. Many claims require the timely filing of an initial administrative complaint before you can proceed with civil litigation.
Damages in employment cases primarily are tied to lost wages, whether back or frint pay. However, in some cases, Employees may be entitled to additional compensatory dames, punitive damages and attorney fees.