Discrimination, Harassment, Retaliation, And Wrongful Termination
Despite efforts to the contrary, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination remain very real problems in the workplace. For employees, discriminatory behavior and harassment can create tremendous stress, and employees are often afraid to take action for fear of losing their jobs. Employers, on the other hand, can be blindsided by allegations involving this type of behavior and find themselves facing expensive lawsuits. Whether you are a business or an employee, an experienced attorney from Erdal Employment Law can help you navigate these difficult situations.
New Jersey and New York Employees Have Rights
Both federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination in any way related to their jobs. This includes discriminatory practices regarding hiring, promotions, pay, and job assignments. It is against the law to discriminate against employees on the following bases:
- Sexual orientation
- Gender
- Ethnicity, race, or national origin
- Religion
- Age
- Disability
- Pregnancy
Harassment is closely related to discrimination and can include offensive jokes, slurs, and derogatory comments. Sometimes referred to as a “hostile work environment,” harassment is a pattern of offensive conduct that is sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to make it difficult for the employee to perform their job effectively. You may have a hostile work environment claim if you have suffered harassment that is based on one of the above characteristics and the behavior has been pervasive and has continued over a period of time.
It is important to note that discrimination and harassment may not always be overt – in many cases, they can be subtle and arguably unintentional. For example, if a new policy in your workplace adversely impacts a specific protected class, you could have a claim for discrimination if your employer refuses to make exceptions. Ultimately, if you suspect that you are being discriminated against or feel that you are being harassed, you should reach out to an employment lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.
Protection from Retaliation and Wrongful Termination
Employees should also be aware that the law protects them from retaliation or wrongful termination as a result of pursuing a discrimination or harassment claim or participating in someone else’s claim. If you believe that you have been terminated, denied a promotion, or otherwise retaliated against, you should contact an employment lawyer immediately.
Employers: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Discrimination and harassment claims can present massive potential liabilities for your business as well as do considerable harm to your reputation. At Erdal Employment Law, we help our clients avoid claims by providing the following services:
- Development and implementation of anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies
- Counseling with regard to difficult questions concerning termination, discipline, and other adverse actions
- Responding to and management of discrimination and harassment claims
Many employers are caught flat-footed when they receive a discrimination or harassment claim. As a result, they mismanage the situation, which leads to additional problems. We can help you avoid claims when possible and handle them appropriately when they arise.
Contact New Jersey and New York Firm Erdal Employment Law Today
Discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination are very serious claims that can be difficult for non-lawyers to handle successfully. Whether you are a worker being discriminated against or a business wanting to ensure your workplace is free from discrimination, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.