Discrimination and Harassment
Discrimination is a Reality in the Workplace
Workplace discrimination comes in many forms, and it’s an ongoing problem for employees throughout our nation. Discrimination occurs whenever people are treated differently because of their race, sexual orientation, physical ability, ethnicity, religion, age, gender or other protected status. Sexual harassment and harassment based on other protected status is also illegal. The effects of discrimination and harassment can be devastating – negatively impacting one’s career, family and social and emotional well-being.
Discrimination and harassment manifest in various ways, ranging from subtle comments to improper hiring/advancement decisions, to an offensive and toxic work environment. Some common examples of include:
- Wrongful termination, failure to hire and/or denial of opportunities for advancement
- Different compensation for the same (or similar) roles
- Imposing additional (or harder) standards
- Exclusion from meaningful participation in meetings and/or team activities
- Preferential treatment of certain candidates for hiring and/or advancement
- Denial of benefits and compensation available to other employees
- Assigning less desirable accounts or projects, including assigning less desirable sales opportunities to sales people
- Requiring disclosure of information related to a protected status, such as genetic information, certain disability-related information and information about certain misdemeanors
- Frequent exposure to offensive language, images or conduct
Discrimination and harassment can also come from your co-workers – it’s not always management. Your employer has an obligation to prevent your coworkers from engaging in such behavior and may be liable if they know about the harassment and fail to take reasonable steps to prevent it.
Skilled Representation For Discrimination Issues
If you’ve been forced to endure discrimination or harassment in the workplace, you should know that there are legal remedies that allow you to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of the Massachusetts and federal laws that govern employment discrimination and harassment. We understand the intricacies of employee-employer relationships, and we’re well-versed in the subtle forms discrimination can take.
We have a proven track record of successfully and aggressively pursuing discrimination claims in all forms, and we can develop a customized litigation strategy designed to address the specific issues associated with your case.
Our unique approach to litigating employment cases puts your interests first. We understand the complex interpersonal and career dynamics that often intersect in these instances, and we take the time to consult with you on these aspects of your case.
If you have concerns about discrimination or harassment in your workplace, contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
