by / on behalf of the firm | Feb 11, 2019 | Age Discrimination, Pregnancy Discrimination, Race Discrimination, Religious Discrimination, Workplace Discrimination
Workplace discrimination is unfortunately not uncommon. From age discrimination, to gender discrimination, to religious discrimination, all different forms of discrimination can be present in the workplace. So, how do you know you are a victim of workplace discrimination?
Age Discrimination
Age discrimination is one of the most common forms of discrimination in the workplace. The signs of age discrimination include: harassment about your age, frequent patterns of encouraging your retirement, and even eliminating your position all together, yet giving the responsibilities to a younger employee. Always be aware of these kinds of signs in the workplace and speak up if you feel that you are being treated differently.
Religious Discrimination
If you are being treated differently or unfavorable because of your religious beliefs, then you are experiencing religious discrimination, which is against the law. You are not allowed to be fired or paid less because of your religion. Keep an eye out for your employee not promoting you or giving you benefits along with giving you tougher assignments. These could all be signs of religious discrimination.
Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when a woman is treated unfavorable because she is pregnant. This is where the Pregnancy Discrimination Act comes in, which forbids discrimination based on pregnancy during any aspect of employment. This includes hiring, firing, job assignments, promotions and layoffs. If you feel like you are being treated differently due to your pregnancy, you might be experiencing pregnancy discrimination.
Gender Discrimination
Another very common workplace discrimination is gender discrimination. This occurs when you are being treated differently because of your gender. Signs include: not getting paid as much as a coworker who is of a different gender, constantly losing promotions to coworkers of another gender or being assigned tougher assignments.
If you feel like you are a victim of workplace discrimination, it is important to speak with an employment attorney as soon as possible. They can help you fight to get the justice you deserve.
Hernandez Law Firm
The legal team at Hernandez Law Firm understands employment law and can provide the advice you need to fully understand your rights. Employment law issues are timely matters and may need attention immediately. It is best to get the legal advice you need as quickly as possible.
by / on behalf of the firm | Feb 5, 2018 | Employment Law, Pregnancy Discrimination, Race Discrimination, Religious Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Workplace Discrimination, Wrongful Termination
Unfortunately, harassment in the workplace is not an uncommon situation. While companies are taking steps to improve the situation, there is still a chance that you have been or could be a victim of some sort of harassment. While there are varying types and levels of harassment, many victims have similar reactions and stories.
Any form of harassment has the potential to make a victim feel fearful, uncomfortable while working, or embarrassed. Employees may choose to stay in a work environment where they face sexual harassment because of limited career options, financial reasons, or the perpetrator may even be promising fantastic career advancement opportunities.
Defining the Perpetrator
If you are experiencing harassment in the workplace, it is important to have an understanding of who is at the root of the issue. Sometimes a group of people decide to gang up against one individual, while other times the situation is more hidden and complex. Even a friendly relationship has the potential of crossing the line and becoming a volatile scenario.
Types of Harassment and Signs to Look Out For
Harassment can take on many forms and may involve religion, race, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, and appearance. One of the most common types is sexual harassment. It is important to note that while females make up the majority of sexual harassment victims, men are also known to encounter similar situations. Harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of social class or superiority at the job.
Harassment may include name-calling, offensive photos or videos, intimidation, threats, ridicule, insults, and much more. The effects of workplace harassment can be devastating. Many victims report feelings of isolation, anxiety, fearfulness, and even depression. An employee may be forced to quit their job if the appropriate plan of action is not put in place during the initial stages.
When Should Legal Action Be Pursued?
Before pursuing legal action, there are some steps you should take. Make sure that you have spoken with the perpetrator and asked them to stop. This will make it difficult for them to convince a judge that it was playful banter you both engaged in. Keep physical records of any evidence to show your attorney. It is also a good idea to file a formal complaint with the company.
Contact us if you feel that you may have a case regarding workplace harassment, we would love to help you.
Feature photo by Marc Mueller.
