Who Is Protected Under State Employment Law?
State law provides protection for employees against discrimination based on a wide variety of traits, including race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, age if they are at least 40 years old, marital status, military or veteran status, and genetic information. Employers generally may not treat employees differently because they belong to one of these protected groups.
In Los Angeles, when someone violates anti-discrimination laws, unlawful conduct may involve:
- Refusing to hire a qualified applicant
- Denying promotions
- Paying employees unequally
- Creating a hostile work environment
- Failing to provide reasonable accommodations
- Retaliating against someone who reports discrimination
- Wrongfully terminating employment
Every case depends on its specific facts, making it important to evaluate the circumstances carefully before pursuing legal action.
What To Do If You Experience Workplace Discrimination
If you believe you have experienced unlawful discrimination, taking prompt action may help preserve your legal rights. Keep copies of emails, text messages, performance evaluations, disciplinary records, and any other documents that may support your claim. It may also be helpful to document incidents as they occur, including the dates, individuals involved, and any witnesses.
Because employers must comply with anti-discrimination laws, employees who experience unlawful treatment may have legal options through the California Civil Rights Department and, in some cases, the courts. Employment claims are subject to procedural requirements and filing deadlines. Speaking with our lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible may help you understand your rights under anti-discrimination laws, preserve important evidence, and determine the most appropriate course of action.
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