Workplace Discrimination
If they treated you differently because of who you are, that’s not just wrong, it may be illegal.
What Workplace Discrimination Looks Like
Discrimination in the workplace happens when an employer treats an employee, or a job applicant, unfairly because of a legally protected characteristic. That’s not an opinion; it’s the law.
Protected characteristics under federal and New York law include:
What "Unfair Treatment" Can Mean
Discrimination doesn’t have to be dramatic to be real. It includes being fired, demoted, paid less than your peers, denied a promotion, given unfair discipline, excluded from opportunities, or put in a position where you’re losing something, money, advancement, or dignity, because of who you are.
An Important Distinction
Not every bad boss is a discriminatory one. A manager who just doesn’t like you isn’t necessarily breaking the law, being disliked isn’t a protected category. What matters is whether the unfair treatment is connected to a protected characteristic like your race, gender, religion, or disability. That’s where the law draws the line.
People often feel certain they were discriminated against, and sometimes they’re right, even when the violation isn’t immediately obvious. The best way to know is to let someone who understands employment law look at the full picture. That’s us.
Don't Try to Figure It Out Alone
Discrimination cases are nuanced. Evidence matters. How you document what happened matters. Coming to us early, even before you’re sure, can make the difference in what you’re able to pursue.
Think this applies to you? Don’t try to figure it out alone, that’s what we’re here for. Call Stillman Legal P.C. for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless you do.
Confidential. Multilingual available. No fee unless we win your case.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is workplace discrimination?
Workplace discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly because of a legally protected characteristic, such as race, sex, pregnancy, disability, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
What are protected characteristics in employment discrimination cases?
Protected characteristics may include race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, citizenship status, and other categories protected by federal, state, or local law.
What are examples of workplace discrimination?
Examples include being fired, demoted, denied a promotion, paid less, disciplined unfairly, harassed, denied accommodations, or given worse shifts because of a protected characteristic.
Is workplace discrimination always obvious?
No. Discrimination is not always direct. It can be subtle, such as being excluded from opportunities, treated more harshly than coworkers, targeted after reporting issues, or held to different standards.
Can I sue my employer for discrimination?
Possibly. If your employer took negative action against you because of a protected characteristic, you may have a claim for workplace discrimination.
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