Every employee has the right to a discrimination and harassment-free workplace. If you have faced any kind of harassment or discrimination, then you should know about all the legal options you have.
It is important for every employee to know about their rights so that they can protect themselves and get justice for themselves if they have been in such a situation. In such a complex situation hiring a professional is very important who can help you deal with this tough situation. Visit an expert law firm’s website to learn more.
Read this article to learn key aspects of employee rights, especially in discrimination and harassment cases, so that you can have a better understanding and deal with the situation correctly.
Understanding Workplace Discrimination Laws
Employers do sometimes treat employees differently. This basically happens on the basis of race, gender, age, or even disability. There are many acts that protect employees from any kind of discrimination at their workplace.
Every employee is protected from discrimination which is based on their characteristic like race, religion, national origin, sex, etc. Also, many states already have laws that help protect employees more than the federal laws.
Discrimination can be any form, from unfair hiring practices to wrongful termination, and you can face discrimination in any part of your job. If you think you are being discriminated against, then document these things so that you have proof to support your case. Make a list of dates, events, and witnesses that can help in supporting you in court.
Harassment in the Workplace
Harassment in your workplace is not just about occasional natural disagreement or rude
comments; It is usually a repetition of acts or comments that create a hostile work environment.
Types of Harassment
There are normally three types of harassment: verbal, physical, and visual. This can be inappropriate jokes, touching, or showing something offensive. The majority of the harassment cases that are filed are related to sexual harassment.
Hostile Work Environment
A hostile work environment is basically when you repeatedly feel unwanted because of the actions of other employees or the employer, which makes it hard for you to work in this hostile or offensive working environment. Being in a hostile environment can affect an employee’s ability to do their job at the best level as it puts them under a lot of stress, which reduces their productivity.
Learn more about your employer’s harassment policy and how you can report a harassment complaint. Every company has a handbook that can help you understand the process of filing a complaint internally.
Filing a Discrimination or Harassment Claim
If you are thinking about filing a complaint against your employer, then it can be a tough process, but if you understand the steps, then it can become easier for you. In many cases, both federal and state agencies can help you with your claim.
Filing with the EEOC
Discrimination and harassment complaints come under the jurisdiction of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The first thing you should do is file a charge with the EEOC, which will investigate your complaint.
Statute of Limitations
It is important for you to make sure that you file your claim on time within the legal time limits. This can vary depending on where you are going to file your complaint, whether it is federal or state law. If you miss this deadline, then your case may not be heard of or rejected.
In the time frame, collect all evidence, such as email correspondence, witness accounts, and performance reviews, so that you have evidence to back up your claim.
Contact a Professional Today
If you have been a victim of workplace discrimination or harassment, you should take immediate action and get the right help. It is important for you to know your legal options and work with an experienced attorney so that you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Do not wait. Contact a professional lawyer today.
