Westwood Employment Discrimination Lawyer

Westwood Employment Discrimination Attorney

Even with California’s robust anti-discrimination laws, workers in Westwood may still face serious acts of discrimination on a regular basis. If you have been the target of discriminatory acts, you can rely on a Westwood employment discrimination lawyer to protect your rights and seek compensation for your financial loss and emotional harm.

The Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez has many years of experience representing Westwood clients in employment discrimination cases. Our founding lawyer is never intimidated by business lawyers and insurance carriers. He can make sure you receive satisfactory compensation.

Why Choose the Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez

California’s at-will employment system might suggest that an employer can fire an employee for any reason, but this is not the case. There are many ways a termination could be unlawful. Understanding what is legal and what isn’t under state and federal laws can be challenging. That’s where our team can help.

The Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez offers many years of experience in employment law. We know what strategies employers use as a way to avoid accountability and liability for discrimination. With representation from our law firm in Westwood, you can have a strong ally in your corner as you pursue justice.

Common Types of Discrimination in California

California acknowledges many types of protected characteristics, including race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and others. When a worker is mistreated through any of the acts below, they can seek the help of an attorney who can hold the at-fault party accountable for discrimination:

• Mistreatment: Any mistreatment of a worker due to their protected status could lead to a discrimination claim. Depending on the type of discriminatory act, the employee may hire an attorney to take administrative action through a state or federal agency.
• Harassment: Employees in California have the right to work in a harassment-free working environment. Harassment could include using racial slurs or offensive jokes, making threatening statements, or engaging in physical threats. Sexual harassment also falls under this umbrella and can take many forms. It usually involves making unwanted sexual advances through physical touch, verbal comments, or gestures.
• Retaliation: Employers in Westwood cannot retaliate against employees for speaking up about legal violations. Retaliation often happens when employees report issues like unsafe work conditions or discriminatory behavior. It may involve pay cuts, demotions, or even termination. A retaliation lawyer can help protect employees who face such discrimination.
• Denial of reasonable accommodations: Reasonable accommodations include any type of adjustments or provisions for qualified workers, provided they do not impose an undue burden on the company. Employees have the right to reasonable accommodations for religious reasons, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and disabilities.

State and National Anti-discrimination Laws

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces anti-discrimination laws at the federal level. The EEOC was established in 1964 as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. They investigate claims related to discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and other protected characteristics.

With the help of an employment law attorney, an employee who believes they have faced discrimination can file a claim with the EEOC. If the administrative complaint is found to be valid, the EEOC will conduct an investigation to determine if there is enough evidence to support the claim.

If the EEOC determines that the employer committed discrimination, the EEOC may facilitate a settlement between the employee and employer. In California, the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) works alongside the EEOC by providing additional protections and resources to ensure a fair and equitable workplace for all.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for an Employment Discrimination Claim in California?

A: The value of any employment discrimination claim depends on whether the claim is resolved by a government agency or in court. Settlements can vary widely. Factors such as the severity of the discrimination, the type of damages, and the specific facts of the case will heavily influence the final settlement amount. In some instances, cases that go to trial may result in significantly higher awards.

Q: Are Employment Discrimination Cases Hard to Win?

A: Employment discrimination cases can sometimes be difficult to win. The employee must prove discriminatory intent, often requiring substantial evidence. Employers frequently present defenses, claiming legitimate reasons for their actions. Additionally, subjective decision-making complicates matters, as personal judgments can obscure discrimination claims. Consulting an experienced attorney can help navigate these complexities and strengthen your case.

Q: What Is the New Law on Discrimination in California?

A: SB 1340 aims to strengthen the enforcement of civil rights laws in California. It requires the Civil Rights Department (CRD) and local agencies to work together to prevent and address discrimination in employment and housing. Local agencies would handle complaints and follow similar procedures within a year of receiving them. The law aims to reduce instances of discrimination in the workplace and reduce the number of complaints handled by the CRD.

Q: How Long Do You Have to File a Discrimination Claim in California?

A: The deadline for filing a discrimination claim in California varies considerably depending on the agency you are filing with. In some cases, you may have a year or less to file, while other agencies allow multiple years to file a claim. You do not want to miss any deadline because doing so could mean you forfeit your right to seek compensation under a state or federal labor law.

Schedule Your Westwood Employment Discrimination Consultation Today

Employment discrimination can take many forms. When an employer engages in discrimination or allows a culture of discrimination in the workplace, that creates a hostile work environment that can be emotionally degrading for employees. Workers have protections from discrimination, but it often takes the services of an employment lawyer to enforce those rights.

At the Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez, we understand the plight you are going through. We have helped many hardworking Californians receive compensation after they were harassed or discriminated against at work. We can take the necessary actions to ensure you are fairly compensated for your losses. To schedule a consultation with us, contact our office today.