While the average layperson uses the terms “discrimination” and “harassment” interchangeably, the courts in California do not view things that way. Legally, discrimination refers to receiving less favorable treatment from a company as an employee or job applicant because they possess a specific characteristic. Harassment refers to being treated poorly by an individual (at work or elsewhere) because of their specific characteristic.
If you have experienced workplace discrimination, talking to a lawyer is imperative to resolving the situation. At Yoosefian Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to helping pursue your case and helping you right the wrongs in your workplace. We will guide you through administrative and legal proceedings and fight for your case until legal justice is achieved.
Groups Protected By Law From Discrimination
Whether a company’s policy or action can be considered employment discrimination hinges on whether the characteristic driving the discrimination is part of what is called a protected class. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forms the federal anti-discrimination and anti-harassment code, only recognizes race, color, national origin, sex and religion as protected classes. However, California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) recognizes a much broader set of protected classes, including all federal categories and the following (among others):
- Medical condition
- National origin or ancestry
- Marital status
- Sexual orientation
- Gender expression and identity
- Veteran or military status
What Does On-The-Job Discrimination Look Like?
Discrimination can wear many faces at work. Here are a few employer actions the courts have ruled are illegal on the basis of discrimination:
- Refusing to hire or promote workers based on a protected characteristic
- Demoting or firing a worker based on a protected characteristic
- Adopting company policies that disproportionately impact workers with a specific characteristic
- Refusing to accommodate the needs of members of a religious group, or committing disability discrimination by ignoring requests for reasonable accommodation
Our firm’s lead attorney, Ronald Yoosefian, can help you evaluate what has happened to you and advise you of the steps you need to take to fight for your rights.
You Deserve A Fair Work Environment. We Can Help.
Our firm stands with employees seeking justice in the workplace. To schedule a free consultation, call 818-275-8572 or use our online intake form. We are located in Glendale but work with clients anywhere in California.