Sometime discrimination in the workplace can be very subtle or hidden in ways that are hard to discover or prove in a lawsuit. But unfortunately, it happens all too often. Because discrimination still happens, even though it never should, there are laws to protect employees and allow victims to seek legal justice, as an employment litigation lawyer in Washington, DC, like from Eric Siegel Law, can explain. Discrimination is wrong and illegal, plain and simple. So it may be time to take action if you suspect or know you’ve been discriminated against as an employee.
Protected Classes
There are particular categories specified in discrimination law that cannot be used against a person for any reason, including the hiring process, promotions, disciplinary actions, raises, and more. Some of these are personal things that people choose, while others are not even an option for us to choose – such as things you are born with or your age. Protected classes include:
- Sex
- Age
- Race
- Disability
- National Origin
- Religion
- Creed
- Sexual Orientation
- Pregnancy
- Genetic Information (including gender identity and transgender)
There are degrees within all of these categories that tend to be targeted for discrimination, which is why they are specially protected to help employees get the fair treatment they deserve in the workplace and hiring process.
Signs to Look for
Does it seem like you never get the more desirable or assignments? Or are you being passed over for promotions and raises while others with less experienced or time at the company are being given more opportunities? If yes, this could be a sign that you are being discriminated against. Another sign is if you are the only, or one of only a few, employees that fit into one of the categories above that is typically discriminated against. For example, you may be one of the oldest employees and watching as younger ones get selected for better positions. Evidence will likely be the key to proving your case, so it is essential to collect as much as possible, even if some of it seems insignificant.
Talk with a Lawyer
When you’ve experienced some form of discrimination in the workplace, it is recommended to work with an experienced employment discrimination lawyer who knows the law. These cases can be difficult to prove, so it may be beneficial to have a professional working for you and providing legal advice throughout the legal process. Contact a law firm today to discuss your situation and legal options with a lawyer and get started on your case.