Employers should always treat their workers equally, with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, many people face discrimination in the workplace because of personal characteristics like religion, disability, age, race, gender, or other aspects of their identity. If your employer denied you a promotion, fired you, or subjected you to harassment or unfair disciplinary action, you may have experienced unlawful discrimination. A Los Angeles workplace discrimination lawyer can help you understand your rights and take legal action to hold your employer accountable.
Dealing with discrimination in the workplace can make it difficult to feel comfortable and respected, or even to do your job. It can make you feel isolated, confused, and uncertain about your future employment. Speaking with an employment attorney can give you the clarity and confidence you need. Erkel Law, P.C. helps workers protect their rights and seek fair treatment.
Workplace discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee unfairly based on certain protected personal characteristics. California Government Code § 12940 outlines these protections.
According to California law, it is unlawful for an employer to discriminate against a job applicant or employee because of the following:
Discrimination can happen in several different ways. Some of the most common ways employers discriminate include refusing to hire or promote someone, hiring them at a lower wage, or denying them training or benefits. Employers may also subject employees to unfair discipline or write-ups to create a hostile work environment. At worst, an employer may even terminate someone based on their protected class.
Not every negative encounter at work constitutes discrimination. An attorney can help you determine whether your experience qualifies as unlawful workplace discrimination in Los Angeles and explain what type of evidence is needed to build a strong claim.
It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible if you believe you have suffered discrimination at work. Typically, you must file an administrative complaint with the California Civil Rights Department within three years of the most recent discriminatory act Cal. Gov. Code § 12960(e). A lawyer can help ensure you file your claim on time and follow the proper procedures.
An attorney can also help by reviewing your case, advising you of your legal rights, collecting documents, emails, and witness statements as evidence, and explaining the types of compensation that may be available. Your lawyer can file a legal claim against your employer on your behalf and represent you in settlement talks or court if litigation becomes necessary. In a successful workplace discrimination case in Los Angeles, you may be able to recover back pay, front pay, compensation for emotional distress, and attorney’s fees.
Some forms of discrimination are clear and direct, while others are subtle and happen over time. If you suspect workplace discrimination, a Los Angeles attorney can advise you on several actions you can take to help your case, including:
Taking these actionable tips can strengthen your case and protect your rights if legal action becomes necessary.
If you have experienced negative and unfair treatment because of a protected characteristic, call Erkel Law, P.C. to speak with a Los Angeles workplace discrimination lawyer. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and hold your employer accountable.
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