Paramus Discrimination Lawyers

Workplace discrimination can significantly impact an individual’s career, emotional well-being, and financial stability. In Paramus, New Jersey, employees are protected by various federal and state laws prohibiting discriminatory practices based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. Yet, discrimination still occurs in many forms, leaving employees confused and unsure of their rights.

The laws that govern workplace discrimination are designed to protect you from unfair treatment and retaliation. Whether the discrimination involves hiring, firing, promotions, pay disparities, or workplace harassment, it is essential to recognize the signs and take appropriate action. The Paramus discrimination lawyers at Carcich O’Shea can answer your questions about workplace discrimination and explain the steps you can take to protect yourself.

What Are the Different Types of Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination can take many forms, and it is not limited to outright harassment or obvious unfair treatment. The most common types of discrimination include:

Race Discrimination: Treating employees differently based on their race or color.
Gender Discrimination: Unfair treatment due to gender or sexual orientation.
Age Discrimination: Treating employees unfavorably due to their age, especially those over 40.
Disability Discrimination: Failing to provide reasonable accommodations or treating individuals with disabilities unfairly.
Religious Discrimination: Treating employees differently due to their religious beliefs.
National Origin Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on ethnicity or country of origin.

Discrimination can occur at any stage of employment, including during the hiring process, promotions, and daily work tasks. Sometimes, it is obvious; in other cases, it is more subtle. It is important to recognize that this treatment is illegal and employees have rights under both federal and state laws.

How Do I Prove Workplace Discrimination?

To prove workplace discrimination, you need tangible evidence that you were treated differently due to a protected characteristic, such as your race or gender. Evidence may include:

Documentation: Emails, text messages, or memos that show discriminatory language or treatment.
Witness Statements: Coworkers who observed the discriminatory actions.
Performance Reviews: A sudden drop in performance reviews or disciplinary actions after revealing a protected characteristic.
Comparative Evidence: Showing that others who do not share your protected characteristic were treated more favorably in similar circumstances.
Record: Keeping a detailed record of incidents and the timeline of events can support your claims and help prove discriminatory intent.

Our Paramus discrimination lawyers can guide you through the evidence-gathering process to help you build a persuasive case for discrimination.

What Laws Protect Employees From Discrimination in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination. The primary federal law governing workplace discrimination is Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Other federal laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).

In addition to federal protections, the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) offers broader protections, covering more categories of discrimination, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and marital status. NJLAD applies to all employers regardless of size, providing greater protection to New Jersey workers than federal law alone.

What Should I Do if I Am Facing Workplace Discrimination?

If you believe you are being discriminated against at work, there are several steps you can take:

Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, and the individuals involved.
Report the Discrimination: Follow your company’s internal procedures for reporting discrimination, usually through human resources or a supervisor.
File a Complaint with the EEOC: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal discrimination laws. Filing a complaint with the EEOC is required before filing a lawsuit.
Seek Legal Advice: Contact our Paramus discrimination lawyers to discuss your rights and the potential for a legal claim. If your employer fails to resolve the issue internally or the EEOC finds that discrimination occurred, you may be able to pursue legal action.

What Is the Role of the EEOC in a Discrimination Case?

The EEOC plays a significant role in investigating claims of workplace discrimination. Before filing a lawsuit under federal discrimination laws, you must first file a complaint with the EEOC. This agency will investigate your claim and may attempt to mediate a resolution between you and your employer. If the EEOC determines that discrimination occurred, they may issue a “right to sue” letter, allowing you to take legal action.

New Jersey residents may also file claims with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR), which enforces the NJLAD. The DCR and EEOC often work together to handle discrimination claims, and the DCR provides additional protections under state law.

What Is Retaliation and Is It Illegal?

Retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for reporting discrimination or participating in a discrimination investigation. Examples include demotion, termination, or other adverse actions that negatively affect an employee’s career. Federal and state laws make it illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for exercising their rights.

Signs of retaliation may include:

A sudden change in performance reviews or workload.
Demotion or reduction in responsibilities.
Harassment or ostracism by colleagues or supervisors.
Termination shortly after reporting discrimination.

Our Paramus discrimination lawyers can explain your legal options if you suspect retaliation.

When Should You Contact a Paramus Discrimination Lawyer?

It is important to consult with a discrimination lawyer when you suspect your rights are being violated. The legal process can be complicated, and missing critical deadlines, such as the time limit for filing an EEOC complaint, can harm your case. Our team can provide valuable guidance on how to proceed, help you gather evidence, and represent your interests in negotiations or court.

The Paramus Discrimination Lawyers at Carcich O’Shea Skillfully Represent Clients in Workplace Discrimination Cases

The workplace is no place for discrimination, and the trusted Paramus discrimination lawyers at Carcich O’Shea can fight to protect your rights. To learn more, call our Hackensack, New Jersey office at 201-988-1308 or submit our online form. We serve clients in Bergen County, Edison County, Essex County, Morris County, and Passaic County.