Compassionate Handling Of Discrimination And Harassment Cases
Experiencing discrimination and harassment in the workplace can make going to work an extremely difficult and emotional experience. If you find yourself in this situation, a lawyer can help you understand your options for taking back control of the situation.
Our attorneys, James R. Kristy and Kurt Kananen, are aggressive advocates for our clients who have suffered negative employment actions in the workplace. We work throughout California from our Los Angeles area-based office of Kristy & Kananen, tirelessly seeking to right the wrongs you have suffered at work. We are confident in our representation, not backing down from even the largest employer who has committed illegal actions against you.
Protected Classifications
You may not be discriminated against or subject to any other retaliatory employment actions based upon numerous classifications that are protected under California law, including:
- Age
- Sex (sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity)
- National origin
- Race or color
- Genetic information
- Religion
- Disability
How Do You Prove You Were Discriminated Against At Work?
Once you suspect occupational discrimination, begin scrutinizing how you and your co-workers are treated in the future. Some specific signs of mistreatment, including racial discrimination, to watch for include:
- Hostile work environment: Experiencing persistent derogatory comments or harassment targeting a protected characteristic or creating a toxic workplace
- Unfair disciplinary actions: Being unfairly targeted for disciplinary actions or being scrutinized more harshly than others for similar behavior
- Retaliation: Facing negative consequences, such as demotion or termination, after reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation
- Exclusion from opportunities: Being consistently left out of meetings, projects or social activities that are crucial for your career advancement
Essentially, if certain employees consistently receive better opportunities, promotions, or benefits while those in protected classes receive less favorable treatment, it could indicate discrimination.
California has worker-friendly employment laws that may entitle you to financial compensation for workplace discrimination and mistreatment. Our employment law firm can advise you to take these steps:
- Documentation: Keeping detailed records of discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, locations and witnesses. Examples include emails, messages and any other relevant communications.
- Reporting: Notifying your employer about the discrimination through the proper channels, such as Human Resources or a supervisor, requesting a written response and following up if necessary.
- Reviewing company policies: Becoming familiar with your employer’s anti-discrimination policies and procedures to determine your rights and the employer’s obligations.
If internal reporting fails, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Our workplace discrimination lawyers offer these and other services for harmed employees ready to seek a remedy:
- Helping to determine if your experience qualifies as unlawful behavior
- Assistance in gathering evidence to support your claim
- Guidance in filing complaints with the proper agencies
- Representation in the courtroom, if necessary
We provide complete support throughout the process of reporting discrimination and seeking justice. Additionally, legal representation by our employment lawyers can help you negotiate with your employer to resolve the matter, potentially preventing a lengthy court battle.
Sexual Harassment Cases
Being sexually harassed at work can not only cause workplace issues but also take a mental toll on the person who is being harassed. It is essential that this behavior stop and that your employer does not tolerate it. If you have reported sexual harassment to your manager and nothing has been done or you have been fired and retaliated against, you need legal representation. You have the right to be free from harassment in the workplace, and your employer has a duty to maintain a nonhostile work environment. Together, we can seek compensation for what you have suffered as a result of workplace sexual harassment or harassment on other grounds.
Take Action To Protect Yourself Today
We are here to help you through any situation involving discrimination or harassment at work. To learn more, get in touch with our office today and schedule a free consultation. Call us at 888-473-0934 or contact our office online now.