Gender Discrimination
In their jobs, schools and other arenas, women and men in America are entitled to equal treatment under the law. The reality, however, is that employers, colleges, and even family court judges sometimes take actions that reflect gender bias.
While some progress has been made in establishing equality in the workplace, sex discrimination still occurs, affecting not only a victim's ability to earn a living but creating an environment in which the worker's morale is compromised, diminishing their ability to do their job effectively. We represent clients who’ve suffered discrimination in the workplace over issues such as:
- Benefits – Even though women tend to be more costly to insure, the law requires they be given equal access to healthcare benefits.
- Hiring – In the past, many women were unfairly denied positions and promotions due to gender. While employment discrimination on the basis of sex may not be as prevalent as it once was, it still exists, especially in specific occupations and industries. For example, women are more likely to suffer from discrimination when applying for engineering positions, while men may find it hard to get hired as administrative assistants. In either case, the discrimination violates federal law.
- Firing – When layoffs seem to disproportionately affect one gender, discrimination may be the reason.
- Pay – A person’s gender cannot be a factor in determining his or her salary or wages.
- Pregnancy – Refusal to hire or make reasonable accommodations for a pregnant woman (or one who might become pregnant) is considered discrimination under federal law.
- Promotion – If all promotions seem to be going to employees of one gender, discrimination may be a factor.
- Sexual harassment – Perpetrating or tolerating this behavior is considered discrimination under federal law. Unwanted sexual conduct in the workplace is illegal if it is meant as a condition of employment or becomes so pervasive that it creates a hostile work environment. The definition of sexual harassment is not gender-specific in regards to perpetrator or victim.
Workplace discrimination affects not only the victim but can also create a climate of mistrust within an organization. If your gender has been used against you when seeking employment, or you suspect you've been fired on the basis of your sex, we will investigate your situation and offer skilled representation that may include reinstatement to your original or similar position, lost wages, or other awards.
