Employment discrimination occurs when a job applicant or employee is treated adversely because of their membership in a protected class.  Both federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination. 

Under federal law, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers with at least fifteen employees cannot discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, or sex. The Federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) also prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by employers with fifteen or more employees.

State law provides additional protections. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provides protection against discrimination based on sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, color, race, religion, ancestry, national origin, medical condition, mental or physical disability, and genetic information.  This applies to employers with at least five employees. 

Some acts of discrimination include: 

• Denying pay raises;
• Denying promotions, 
• Failure to hire;
• Harassment; or
• Paying employees with similar qualifications different salaries based on protected status. 

You should not be subjected to discrimination.  If you have experienced any kind of discrimination at work, make sure the incident is well documented.  Even if your particular issue is not listed, we can likely help you. Use the “Contact Us Now” link below for a free consultation.