The New York City caregiver discrimination attorneys at Risman & Risman, P.C. are committed to protecting employees who face unfair treatment at work due to their responsibilities for caring for children, elderly relatives, or other loved ones. Under the New York City Human Rights Law, employees are safeguarded from discrimination based on caregiver status.
Employers cannot make employment decisions that unfairly penalize workers simply because they are caregivers. When an employee is treated differently due to caregiving responsibilities, it constitutes unlawful discrimination, and our attorneys are ready to enforce your rights under these laws.
What Is Caregiver Discrimination?
Caregiver discrimination occurs when an employer makes negative employment decisions based on an employee’s responsibilities to care for a minor child, a disabled relative, or another dependent. This includes hiring, firing, promotion, discipline, scheduling, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Examples of caregiver discrimination include:
- Denying a parent a promotion based on an assumption that they will not be as committed to work.
- Penalizing an employee for taking time to care for an elderly parent.
- Refusing to hire a qualified candidate because they disclose that they are a caregiver.
- Applying stricter performance or attendance standards to caregivers compared to other employees.
Rights of Caregivers in New York
In New York City, the NYCHRL explicitly prohibits discrimination against caregivers. The law defines “caregiver status” as providing direct and ongoing care for a minor child or a care recipient with a disability who relies on the employee.
It is important to note, however, that while caregiver discrimination is unlawful, these laws do not require employers to provide special accommodations for caregiving duties. The protections are focused on ensuring equal treatment and freedom from discrimination.
Standing Up Against Caregiver Discrimination
Employees should not be forced to choose between keeping their jobs and fulfilling their family responsibilities. When employers rely on stereotypes or unfair assumptions about caregivers, they may be violating the law.
The employment attorneys of Risman & Risman, P.C. represent employees across New York City who have been subjected to caregiver discrimination. We understand the damaging impact of being mistreated due to family responsibilities, and we work tirelessly to obtain justice for our clients.
Contact a Caregiver Discrimination Attorney
If you believe you have been discriminated against at work because of your role as a caregiver, contact the experienced employment lawyers at Risman & Risman, P.C. We will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and fight to hold your employer accountable.
