Discrimination in the Workplace
Every employee has the right to be free of discrimination at their workplace. Workplace discrimination is not only illegal, but also unethical and can lead to devastating effects for employees. There are a variety of laws, both state and federal, that protect employees and make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or employee because of a protected characteristic.
Discrimination can take many forms, so it is important to be aware of your rights and review your case with a qualified employment law attorney.
State laws prohibiting discrimination apply to employer business practices at multiple stages, including the following:
- Advertisements
- Applications, Screening, and Interviews
- Hiring, Transferring, Promoting, Terminating, or Separating Employees
- Working Conditions, Including Compensation
- Participation in a Training or Apprenticeship Program, Employee Organization or Union
Your Discrimination Attorney
Enacting and enforcing anti-discrimination laws is crucial in creating a safe workplace that embraces diversity and respects the rights of all individuals. Lott Law is an experienced discrimination attorney ready to protect your rights. Learn about the California legal code below or contact us today to understand your employee rights.
Q: What Characteristics Are Legally Protected From Discrimination?
Discrimination & Harassment – California Labor Code 12940
The California Civil rights Department enforces laws that protect you from discrimination and harassment based on your actual or perceived:
- Ancestry
- Age (40 and above)
- Color
- Disability (physical, developmental, mental health/psychiatric, HIV and AIDS)
- Genetic information
- Gender Expression
- Gender Identity
- Marital Status
- Military or Veteran Status
- Medical Condition (genetic characteristics, cancer, or a record or history of cancer)
- National Origin (includes language restrictions and possession of a driver’s license issued to undocumented immigrants)
- Race (includes hair texture and hairstyles)
- Religion (includes religious dress and grooming practices)
- Reproductive Health Decision Making
- Sex/Gender (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and/or related medical conditions)
- Sexual Orientation
Q: Which Employers Can Be Held Liable For Workplace Discrimination?
Employer Categories- California Labor Code 12940
According to the Labor Code, California’s anti-discrimination laws apply to the following employers:
- People or businesses that employ five or more persons
- People or businesses that can act as an agent of a covered employer
- State or local governmental entities
Contact A Discrimination Lawyer Today
If you believe that you have been discriminated against illegally by an employer, we can help get you the compensation you deserve. Lott Law is committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination in the workplace, ensuring that you are working in a safe and inclusive environment.
