ByDespite all the talk and steps in recent years, discrimination in various forms remains a serious concern in New Jersey. Employers act against employees in ways that directly violate employment contracts and existing state and federal laws. If you think you are a victim of discrimination at work in Paramus, consider visiting the Law Offices of Usmaan Sleemi for a consultation. The first meeting & subsequent discussion with an attorney is usually not chargeable, and everything you talk at the lawyer’s office will not be shared with anyone. This guide aims to educate you on discrimination and how to find an attorney who can fight for you and protect your rights.
A look at types of employment discrimination
Let’s understand discrimination through a few examples –
- Unequal treatment: It often happens that employers treat certain employees unfairly because they belong to a certain protected class. For instance, if your supervisor denied you a genuinely due promotion because you just turned 40, it is a case of age-based discrimination. Such cases can be pursued further.
- Disparate impact: Sometimes, employers just make it hard for some employees to have the same advantages or opportunities as others. For instance, if the job is such that employees need to lift heavy weights, the chances are high that women would not be able to apply or get the job.
- Retaliation: Workplace retaliation happens in a lot more ways than people think. It could be about a complaint that backfired or reporting wrongdoings of others. Let’s say you reported sexual harassment concerning your boss and the company, instead of taking action or launching an investigation, they decide to fire you instead. That’s the wrong kind of approach and a case for retaliation.
Why do you need an attorney?
Firstly, you must understand your rights and the legal options that you can consider, and most of it is usually hard to decode. Having an attorney allows you to first review whether you have a case, and if you do, your lawyer will do everything possible to ensure you take the next steps accordingly. Whether it is about negotiating with your employer or representing you at hearings, an attorney gives you a fair chance to voice your side. You don’t have to deal with your employer’s extended legal team alone. Also, they can advise you on the dos and don’ts that may help or hurt your case.
Selecting an employment lawyer in Paramus
With numerous law firms in Paramus, you have to be cautious about how you choose an attorney. The basic is simple – You need someone specializing in employment law. You have to check whether the lawyer has worked on similar cases and more importantly, if their work is focused on employee rights. A lawyer who fights for both sides may not be a wrong choice, provided they are not working for your employer in a separate case. You have to understand what they offer, whether they have extensive experience, and their track record so far. There is no harm in meeting an attorney in person and asking questions, especially if you are new and have never been in a similar situation before. Get references, but also check online reviews and ratings. All of that combined together can help compare choices. As we stated earlier, most law firms do not charge for meeting employees who have been subjected to discrimination and harassment.
In summary
Whether it is a case of wrongful firing or something that impacts your ability to work and be productive, you have to explore all avenues. Select the right attorney, and they will fight for justice, which could be a mix of financial compensation and other things like recovering lost wages or getting your job back. There is no better time to start when you are a victim and need help.
