Discrimination
Being treated worse for who you are
The law protects you from decisions made because of your race, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin.
Discrimination is rarely said out loud. It shows up as the promotion that went to someone newer, the hours cut after a diagnosis, the layoff list that was mostly older workers.
Protection covers pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, and workers over forty. If you have a disability, your employer has to talk with you about reasonable changes to the job.
Many of these claims must start with a charge at a government agency before any lawsuit. The deadline can be as short as 180 days, so we help you file it right and on time.
What it can look like
Passed over
Training, raises or promotions given to people less qualified.
Accommodation refused
No talk about a schedule change, a stool, or time for treatment.
Pushed out with age
Told you're not a fit for the new direction, then replaced by someone younger.
Pregnancy penalized
Hours cut or duties changed after you told your boss.
What workers ask about discrimination
What's a charge, and do I need one?
It's a written complaint to a civil rights agency. For most discrimination claims it has to come first, and we draft it with you.
Can I keep working while this goes on?
Yes, and most of our clients do. Retaliating against you for filing is illegal.
Do I need a witness?
It helps, but most cases are built from records, timing and comparisons. Write down what happened and when.
Talk it through with a staff attorney
Four questions tell you if we can take it. A call tells you where you stand.
Our help is free for workers who qualify. If a case goes to court, filing and transcript costs can come up; we ask the court to waive them when we can, and we tell you before any cost is yours.