Every employee deserves to work in an environment where they are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, workplace discrimination remains a persistent issue in many organizations, leading to lost opportunities, emotional distress, and even wrongful termination. If you’ve experienced discrimination at work in Egg Harbor Township, you don’t have to face it alone. An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for justice.
What is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly based on protected characteristics. Discrimination can happen in various forms, including hiring, promotions, job assignments, compensation, layoffs, and even daily interactions in the workplace.
Protected Characteristics Under Discrimination Laws
Both federal and New Jersey state laws prohibit discrimination based on the following protected characteristics:
- Race or Color
- Gender or Sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation)
- Age (40 and older)
- Disability (physical or mental)
- Religion or Creed
- National Origin or Ancestry
- Marital Status
- Military Service or Veteran Status
- Genetic Information
- Gender Identity or Expression
- AIDS or HIV Status
Types of Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination can be overt or subtle, making it difficult to identify in some cases. Common types of workplace discrimination include:
- Hiring Discrimination: Refusing to hire a qualified candidate based on race, gender, age, or other protected traits.
- Pay Disparities: Paying employees differently for the same work due to discriminatory reasons.
- Promotion Bias: Overlooking deserving employees for promotions based on bias rather than merit.
- Harassment: Subjecting employees to offensive jokes, slurs, or unwanted advances that create a hostile work environment.
- Retaliation: Punishing an employee for reporting discrimination, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation.
- Wrongful Termination: Firing an employee because of their protected status or in retaliation for protected activities.
Recognizing Subtle Signs of Discrimination
Discrimination isn’t always blatant. Some subtle signs may include:
- Being consistently passed over for promotions despite strong performance
- Unfair negative performance reviews without valid justification
- Exclusion from meetings, projects, or opportunities for growth
- Sudden changes in job responsibilities without explanation
- Receiving different treatment compared to colleagues in similar roles
What Laws Protect Employees from Workplace Discrimination?
Employees in Egg Harbor Township are protected by both federal and state anti-discrimination laws, including:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace.
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Protects employees aged 40 and older from age-based discrimination.
- Equal Pay Act of 1963: Requires equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender.
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Provides broader protections than federal laws, covering additional categories such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and marital status.
What to Do If You Experience Workplace Discrimination
If you believe you’ve been subjected to workplace discrimination, here are steps you can take to protect your rights:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, individuals involved, and any witnesses.
- Review Company Policies: Check your employer’s anti-discrimination and harassment policies to understand the process for reporting issues internally.
- File an Internal Complaint: Report the discrimination to your HR department or supervisor. Submit your complaint in writing and keep copies for your records.
- Seek Legal Advice: If your complaint is ignored, dismissed, or if you face retaliation, consult an experienced employment lawyer to explore your legal options.
How an Employment Lawyer Can Help
Workplace discrimination cases can be complex, especially when employers deny wrongdoing or try to justify their actions. An experienced employment lawyer can:
- Evaluate your case to determine if your legal rights were violated
- Gather evidence, including emails, performance reviews, and witness statements
- File complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR)
- Negotiate settlements for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages
- Represent you in court if your case proceeds to litigation
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney?
When facing workplace discrimination, you need legal advocates who are dedicated to Protecting Your Rights. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC has extensive experience representing employees in discrimination cases throughout Egg Harbor Township and New Jersey. Our legal team is committed to holding employers accountable and fighting for justice on behalf of individuals who have been treated unfairly in the workplace.
Take Action Today—Don’t Let Workplace Discrimination Go Unchallenged
If you’ve experienced discrimination at work, you have the right to speak up and seek justice. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today to schedule a consultation with an experienced employment lawyer and protect your rights.
Contact Information
New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830, New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
