employment discrimination lawyer los angeles – Resources

Employment discrimination lawyer Los Angeles

Types of Employment Discrimination

At Kirtland & Packard LLP, we have witnessed firsthand how discrimination in the workplace can take various forms, each with its own set of challenges for the victim. Discrimination may occur based on:

• Race Discrimination: Treats individuals unfairly in employment settings due to their race or characteristics associated with race.
• Gender Discrimination: Occurs when an employee is treated unfavorably because of their gender, including issues related to unequal pay or harassment.
• Age Discrimination: Targets individuals who are 40 years old or older, affecting their employment opportunities and conditions.
• Disability Discrimination: Involves unfair treatment of employees with disabilities, not providing reasonable accommodations as required by law.
• Pregnancy Discrimination: Affects women who are pregnant or have medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth.
• Sexual Orientation Discrimination: Unjust treatment based on an individual’s sexual orientation, affecting their employment status or work environment.
• National Origin Discrimination: Refers to treating employees unfavorably because they are from a particular country or part of the world, have an accent, or appear to be of a certain ethnic background.

Laws Protecting Against Employment Discrimination

The legal framework aimed at preventing employment discrimination includes federal laws such as:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from discrimination based on age.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs.
• Pregnancy Discrimination Act: Protects pregnant employees from being discriminated against in terms of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, and promotions.

In addition to federal laws, California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) offers broad protections against employment discrimination, covering many of the same areas as federal laws but with its nuances and provisions.

Legal Process for Employment Discrimination Cases

Navigating the legal process in employment discrimination cases requires careful handling:

• Filing a Discrimination Complaint with a Government Agency: The first step typically involves filing a complaint with an appropriate agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
• Obtaining a Right-to-Sue Letter: After the agency investigates, you may receive a notice giving you the right to sue, which is necessary for proceeding to court.
• Filing a Lawsuit in Court: With the right to sue, a lawsuit can be filed in a relevant court to seek justice and compensation for the discrimination faced.
• Discovery Process: Both parties gather evidence, which may include depositions, document requests, and interrogatories, to build their cases.
• Trial or Settlement Negotiations: The case may go to trial, or it might settle outside of court through negotiations.

Benefits of Hiring an Employment Discrimination Lawyer

Having a seasoned employment discrimination lawyer by your side offers numerous benefits:

• Legal Expertise and Experience: Understanding the complexities of employment law and leveraging experience to navigate your case effectively.
• Guidance Through the Legal Process: Helping you understand each step of the process and what to expect, ensuring no missteps along the way.
• Maximized Chances of Success: Utilizing strategic legal tactics to strengthen your case and enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
• Advocacy for Your Rights: Dedicated representation that tirelessly works to assert and defend your rights throughout the case.

Finding the Right Employment Discrimination Lawyer

When seeking representation, it’s critical to choose a lawyer with the right expertise and approach:

• Researching and Vetting Potential Attorneys: Look into their background, track record, and client reviews to gauge their suitability.
• Checking Credentials and Experience: Verify their expertise in employment law, particularly in discrimination cases, and their experience in handling similar cases.
• Consultation and Case Evaluation: Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case, which is a good opportunity to evaluate whether they’re a good fit.
• Fee Structure and Payment Arrangements: Understand how the attorney charges for their services, including any upfront fees, hourly rates, or contingency fees.

At Kirtland & Packard LLP, our commitment to justice and fair compensation drives us to provide the best possible legal representation for those facing employment discrimination in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. If you believe you’ve been a victim of workplace discrimination, contact us today to discuss how we can support you through this challenging time.

Employment discrimination lawyer Los Angeles

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