Los Angeles Age Discrimination Lawyer

Age Discrimination Attorney in Los Angeles, CA

The way you are treated by co-workers or supervisors should not be defined by demographic factors that are out of your control – including your age. If you think you have been victimized by age discrimination in the workplace, the Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez can help. Miguel Ramirez is an experienced Los Angeles age discrimination lawyer and former defense counsel for large corporations. He has heard stories like yours many times before. For assistance with age discrimination or other employment-related issues, consult a Los Angeles employment lawyer

Miguel S. Ramirez Works To Protect Your Rights

Lawyer Miguel S. Ramirez listens carefully to your story. He interviews and investigates thoroughly in order to learn the facts of your case. Those he faces in negotiations or in court know that he has the strength of his convictions and your best interests at heart.

We are sensitive to your needs – legal, financial and emotional. From start to finish of your case, Mr. Ramirez works hard to earn your trust and help you get the results you deserve. You can speak candidly and confidentially about your age discrimination case with the Law Offices of Miguel S. Ramirez in a free consultation. Call 213-975-0003.

What Is Age Discrimination in the Workplace?

Age discrimination is a specific form of employment discrimination that is directed at older individuals. For example, if someone who is a perfect fit for a job is not hired because they’re considered “too old and slow,” this is age discrimination. According to federal law, age discrimination can only occur against individuals who are at least 40 years of age. Those over the age of 40 tend to face more age-based scrutiny than others. If you believe you have been a victim of age discrimination, an employment discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles can provide the necessary legal support to address and resolve your case

What Laws Protect California Employees From Age Discrimination?

There are a myriad of laws in place designed to protect employees and keep their workplaces safe. A few of these laws specifically protect job applicants and employees from discrimination based on their age. The following laws offer you protections and the right to file a legal claim if you face age discrimination at work:

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA)

Unfortunately, many employers view old age as a weakness, leading to the unjust treatment of older employees in their place of work. The ADEA makes age discrimination against any employee or job applicant older than 40 illegal. Because this is a federal act, it applies to employers across the country.

California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)

FEHA provides California’s employees with more extensive rights than federal laws do. This legislation also prevents age discrimination in the workplace, as well as discrimination based on a wide range of protected characteristics. FEHA is in place to ensure that every employee in Los Angeles, California is treated with fairness and respect, regardless of their age, sex, race, or gender identity.

Examples of Age Discrimination in Your California Workplace

California and federal laws prohibit discrimination against workers who are 40 years old or older. We would like to speak with you immediately if:

• You have received or overheard disparaging comments or jokes concerning your age.
• You have been eliminated from contention for a job hiring or promotion due to your age.
• Your salary or hourly wage has remained the same or been reduced, while younger workers’ pay has increased.
• You have been dismissed, fired or laid off purportedly due to your company’s downsizing, outsourcing, workforce reduction, corporate reorganization or a decision to “go in a different direction.”
• You have been dismissed and replaced by a younger employee.
• Your employer will not assign you certain tasks because they believe you’re too weak or slow.

What Damages Can I Receive With a Successful Age Discrimination Claim?

When an employee files a successful discrimination claim, they will be awarded damages that can help them move forward. Damages must be the direct result of age discrimination. If you and your attorney can prove that age discrimination took place, you will most likely receive one or more of the following damages:

• Lost Wages: If the discrimination you endured impacted your pay or your career in general, you may be able to recover lost wages with a successful claim.
• Coverage of Attorney Fees: In many successful employment claims, the defendant may be required to cover attorney fees after the case is settled.
• Compensation for Emotional Distress and Suffering: Another form of compensatory damages is compensation for the emotional distress you’ve endured. For example, if being fired from your job ultimately resulted in you losing your car or home, this may be considered emotional suffering.
• Punitive Damages: In addition to compensatory damages that help you cover the costs of your case, punitive damages may also be awarded. Punitive damages are designed to penalize the defendant if they’re found guilty and are paid out-of-pocket to the victim with a successful claim.

Why You Need an Employment Lawyer During Age Discrimination Cases

It’s crucial that you talk to a skilled lawyer before you file any sort of employment claim. An employment lawyer will not only have experience with your type of case, but they’ll also be able to help you navigate the appropriate legal steps. Because many large companies already have lawyers on retainer for employment claims, hiring a discrimination lawyer to protect and represent you is essential.

A few of the many reasons you should consider hiring Miguel S. Ramirez and his dedicated legal team include:

• We can evaluate whether or not you have a substantial age discrimination claim.
• We can help you gather evidence that proves age discrimination took place.
• Our team can represent you during hearings and trials, ensuring that your employee rights are recognized at all times.
• We can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring settlements are as fair as possible.
• We can fight in court for the damages that you deserve.

Los Angeles Age Discrimination FAQs

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Age Discrimination Cases in California?

Like other employment discrimination cases, you now have three years to file a claim for age discrimination in the state of California. Your time begins on the date that the adverse behavior or action took place. For example, if you were fired because your employer found out how old you were on November 1st, 2022, you would have until November 1st, 2025, to file a claim. To ensure you meet the time limitations for your case, talk to Miguel S. Ramirez for assistance.

Where Do You File an Age Discrimination Claim in California?

You can file a federal age discrimination claim through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a state-level claim through the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). If you file through the EEOC first, your claim will also be sent to the CRD for investigation. If you file through the CRD, matters will be handled at the state level unless the CRD believes it requires federal assistance.

Who Is Able to File an Age Discrimination Claim in California?

Any employee who is over 40 years old and experiences age discrimination can file a claim in California. It is a direct violation of an employee’s rights for an employer to ask their age, mistreat them, or refuse to hire them because of their age. Unpaid interns, volunteers, job applicants, trainees, and long-term employees may all face age discrimination and have the right to take legal action.

Do You Need to Have a Lawyer to File an Age Discrimination Claim?

While it’s not a requirement to hire a lawyer when filing a discrimination claim, it’s important to have one on your side when hearings occur. Most employers keep skilled attorneys on retainer for when issues like discrimination cases arise. This can make it difficult for employees to make their voices heard without the help of an attorney. Hiring an experienced California employment lawyer can help you take legal action for age discrimination in a variety of ways.