Discrimination
Federal and California law prohibit discrimination in the workplace that is based upon an employee’s “protected characteristics,” such as race, color, age (over 40), gender, pregnancy, religion, national origin, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation or political activities or affiliations. Discrimination can take the form of “disparate treatment,” such as termination, being denied raises or promotions, wage reductions, disciplinary actions, and negative performance reviews, and “disparate impact,” which are employer policies that have a disproportionate adverse effect on one or more protected characteristic groups.
Although it is the most prevalent type of claim, discrimination claims extend beyond wrongful termination and include any employer action/decision that wrongfully discriminates against or treats an individual less favorably based on any protected characteristic, including, but not limited to, decisions on such issues as recruiting and hiring, job assignments, promotions, transfers, pay, benefits or other conditions of employment.
In order to pursue a claim of discrimination, the employee’s evidence generally must sustain a reasonable inference that discrimination was a motive behind the adverse action(s) taken by his/her employer. The employee is not required to prove that discriminatory motive was the sole motive for the adverse action(s), but instead only must show that discriminatory motive was a substantial factor in the adverse action(s) taken against him/her. Discrimination often is established by circumstantial evidence, such as comments in an age discrimination case that the employer “needed to bring in new blood” or “more energetic employees” or that the employee was not “keeping up with the times.” Victims of discrimination typically can seek compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages, attorney’s fees and court costs.
If you or your loved one believes that you have been wrongfully terminated or treated differently at work on the basis of race, age, gender, pregnancy, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, medical condition, or sexual orientation, it is crucial that you retain an experienced attorney who not only understands the intricacies of California’s employment laws, but also is skilled in handling such matters.
The Law Offices of Craig Hubble, along with the attorneys with whom we work, has extensive employment litigation experience, and our experience, tenacity and skill have helped us thrive in this complex area of law. We employ a hands-on, dedicated approach to every matter, and we believe that it is vital that you get the personal attention, emotional support and tireless, high quality representation that you genuinely deserve. We are committed to protecting your rights, obtaining the best results for you and helping you get your life back on track towards a bright future. While based in the Los Angeles area, our practice extends to state and federal courts throughout California.
Contact us today for a free consultation as to your rights and potential remedies. Because these matters are pursued on a contingency basis, there is no fee unless and until you are compensated.