Unfortunately, even though we are now in the 21st century, discrimination is still commonplace. A workplace may hire only men. A person may get passed over for a promotion due to their age. Workers may get unfavorable tasks because they are in a minority group.
These are all unfair and illegal situations. They are all types of employment discrimination. Employment discrimination occurs when a person is treated negatively due to being in a protected class. Discrimination can happen in all elements of employment, such as hiring, firing, promotion, training, and job assignments.
Think you may be a victim of discrimination? Contact The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline. We understand that discrimination is still rampant in many places of employment, and we will help ensure your rights are protected.
Types of Employment Discrimination
There are many types of employment discrimination. The most common ones include the following:
Race/color discrimination. Race discrimination occurs when employees are treated differently due to unalterable characteristics, such as physical features attributed to their race.
Age discrimination. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 makes it illegal to discriminate against anyone over the age of 40.
Sex discrimination. Sex discrimination occurs when men and women are treated differently based on gender. It may take the form of deliberate and repeated verbal comments, gestures, or physical contact of a sexual nature.
Disability discrimination. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not require preferential treatment of individuals with disabilities, but it does prohibit discrimination against qualified applicants with disabilities.
Sexual orientation discrimination. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Why You Need a Lawyer
If you think you may have been a victim of employment discrimination, you need to know for sure. That is why it is a good idea to talk to a lawyer. They can assess your case, determine if you have a claim, and help you take action if necessary. Here’s how they can help you:
Assess your case. You may think your employer treated you unfairly, but not all unfair treatment is discrimination. You need to prove that your employer took adverse action against you because of your protected class, which is not easy to do.
Gather evidence. Your lawyer will need to get evidence of the discrimination. Two main steps are subpoenaing key documents and taking witness depositions.
Lay out your options. Your lawyer can help you understand your options. They may include filing a charge of discrimination, sending your employer a settlement letter, or even pursuing a lawsuit in court. Your lawyer will outline the pros and cons of each option.
Contact Us Today
Whether you are an employee or employer, you may need help with a discrimination case. Are you an employee facing discrimination in the workplace? Are you an employer who has been wrongfully accused?
Need an employment discrimination lawyer in Chicago? Contact The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline. We will fight for your legal rights. Schedule a consultation with our office by filling out the online form or calling (312) 558-1454.
