At Risman & Risman, P.C, we pride ourselves on vigorously representing employees subjected to unlawful employment discrimination. We have a wealth of experience and a proven track record in effectively advocating for our client’s rights and protections under federal and New Jersey employment laws.
Understanding Employment Discrimination
Employment discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably due to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, or genetic information. Discrimination may manifest in various employment aspects, including hiring, promotion, job assignment, termination, compensation, and harassment.
Under both federal and New Jersey state laws, it is illegal for employers to make employment decisions based on protected characteristics. For instance, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Similarly, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) prohibit discrimination based on disability and age, respectively.
On a state level, the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) offers even broader protection, extending to additional categories such as marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military service, and more.
Our Experience With Employment Discrimination Law
At Risman & Risman, P.C., our attorneys possess deep knowledge of these complex laws and how to apply them to protect your rights effectively. Our attorneys can evaluate your claim, explain your legal rights, guide you through the legal process, and represent you in negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings, if necessary.
Hiring Discrimination: For example, if you were qualified for a job but not hired due to your race, gender, age, or any other protected characteristic, we can help. Our team understands how to uncover the sometimes subtle evidence of discrimination, such as a pattern of an employer hiring less-qualified candidates from a non-protected class.
Workplace Harassment: Our firm can also assist if you’ve experienced harassment at work. Harassment becomes unlawful when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment or if the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive.
Retaliation: Retaliation is another form of unlawful employment discrimination. Both federal and state laws protect employees who assert their rights, file a complaint, or participate in an investigation related to discrimination claims. If your employer has retaliated against you, we can provide expert legal advice and representation.
Seek Legal Help Immediately
Employment discrimination can often be subtle and difficult to prove, requiring an understanding of legal requirements and standards of evidence. Additionally, there are specific timelines, known as statutes of limitations, for bringing a claim of employment discrimination.
For instance, under New Jersey law, you generally have two years from the date of the discriminatory act to file a lawsuit. Under federal law, you must file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days to preserve your claims.
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of employment discrimination, acting promptly is crucial. Delaying can result in the loss of evidence and can even bar you from pursuing a claim.
Our Pledge to You
Our commitment is to tirelessly advocate for employees who have been victims of employment discrimination. We believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect in the workplace, and we are dedicated to upholding these principles for our clients.
Remember, you are not alone in this fight. Contact us today for a consultation online or at (212) 233-6400. We can help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and stand up for you in the face of workplace discrimination.