Discrimination Law Lawyer in Brooklyn
Fighting to Protect Employee Rights in the Workplace
The world has undoubtedly come a long way in recent years regarding equality and fighting stereotypes. Unfortunately, forms of bigotry still exist — and in some instances, they find their way into the workplace. This is wholly inappropriate whenever it happens, and in many cases, it’s an illegal act that can result in a lawsuit. If you find yourself facing such behavior, a discrimination law lawyer in Brooklyn may be able to help.
At The Law Office of Vincent Miletti, we’ve spent years handling discrimination cases for citizens of New York and New Jersey. We know that facing differential treatment in the workplace can be stressful, confusing, and even traumatizing. Fortunately, the law says that you don’t have to deal with such actions — and your employer cannot punish you for asserting your rights. Contact our discrimination lawyers today to learn more.
What Is Employment Discrimination?
Discrimination in the workplace occurs when an employee faces differential treatment in their job because of their membership in a protected class. This can also happen to non-employees. For instance, an individual who isn’t hired because of their race may have a valid lawsuit that results in substantial compensation. There are various protected classes that fall under federal law. These include:
- Race
- Color
- Disability
- Age
- National origin
- Sex (e.g., orientation, identity, pregnancy)
- Religion
- Genetic information
If you feel discriminated against for characteristics not listed above, you should still speak with a discrimination lawyer in Brooklyn. That’s because state laws may provide additional protections. For instance, New York also lists marital status, familial status, criminal record, and military status as protected classes — among others. This is why it’s always wise to seek legal advice if you believe you’re a victim of discrimination.
What If You’re Discriminated Against in the Workplace?
The first thing many people do after experiencing discriminatory acts in the workplace is report the incident to their employer. This is certainly a step that typically must be taken, but it never hurts to speak with a discrimination lawyer in Brooklyn first. They can help you understand how to move forward and what you should do to build the strongest case. Once you do report illegal acts to your employer, the ball is in their court.
Your employer must have the chance to rectify the situation. When you alert them of the inappropriate behavior, though, make sure you ask for a written report so everything is documented. If they do not take your complaint seriously — or even punish you for reporting — then you could benefit from working with an attorney to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
What’s the Difference Between Harassment and Discrimination?
Some people get confused about the difference between harassment and discrimination in the workplace. While the two are closely related, there are actually distinct differences between the two. Discrimination is a pattern of differential treatment toward a person or a group of people based on their memberships in a protected class.
Conversely, harassment in the workplace is unwelcome conduct that’s based on these protected statuses. Harassment is illegal if it creates a hostile work environment or when dealing with the behavior becomes an employment condition. Discrimination may go unnoticed for some time, but harassment involves active behaviors that create an uncomfortable work environment.
Regardless of what is occurring, both of these actions are illegal. You should contact a Brooklyn discrimination law lawyer if you believe you’re dealing with either.
A Discrimination Law Lawyer in Brooklyn is Ready to Assist You
There is no place for discrimination in the workplace. Even after all the progress we’ve made over the years, this behavior still shows its ugly head. If you’re a victim of this type of improper conduct, it’s important that you take appropriate action. A Brooklyn discrimination attorney can help you understand your rights and how to move forward.
At The Law Office of Vincent Miletti, you’ll work directly with a legal team that’s dedicated to seeking justice on your behalf. We’ve served our community for years and understand what it takes to be successful in both settlement negotiations and litigation. You do not have to go through this on your own. Our law firm is here to assist.
Call us today at 314-648-2586 to book a free consultation with our discrimination lawyers.