Age discrimination in the workplace is a serious issue affecting many employees across Los Angeles. While federal and state laws protect workers from being treated unfairly due to age, ageism remains prevalent in various industries. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of your age, working with an experienced Los Angeles age discrimination attorney can help you navigate your legal options and secure justice.
What is Age Discrimination
It occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant less favorably due to age. Under the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), individuals aged 40 and older are protected from such unfair treatment in the workplace. California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) offers broader protections.
Some common examples of age discrimination include:
- Hiring Bias: Refusing to hire qualified candidates because they are over a certain age.
- Promotion Denials: Overlooking older employees for promotions in favor of younger, less experienced candidates.
- Harassment: Subjecting employees to age-related jokes or derogatory comments.
- Unjustified Terminations: Firing or laying off older workers without valid reasons.
- Unfair Pay Reductions: Cutting the wages of older employees without explanation.
If you’ve experienced any of these situations, consulting a Los Angeles age discrimination lawyer is essential.
Legal Protections Against Age Discrimination
The following laws offer protection against age discrimination:
1. Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
The ADEA protects employees aged 40 and older from age-based discrimination in hiring, firing, promotions, and other employment decisions.
2. Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
California’s FEHA is one of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in the nation. It covers various discriminatory practices and offers additional remedies beyond those available under federal law.
Employers found guilty of age discrimination can be held accountable through various remedies, including:
- Reinstatement of employment
- Back pay and lost wages
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Attorney’s fees
Statistics on Age Discrimination
Age discrimination continues to be a widespread problem in the workplace. Recent data from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) shows:
- Over 15,000 age discrimination complaints are filed annually.
- Nearly 70% of older workers report feeling their age is a disadvantage at work.
- 36% of age discrimination cases result in favorable outcomes for employees.
Despite these protections, many age discrimination cases go unreported due to fear of retaliation or job loss.
How a Los Angeles Age Discrimination Attorney Can Help
When facing age discrimination, it is critical to have a knowledgeable age discrimination attorney by your side. Here are the key ways an attorney can support your case:
- Case Evaluation: An experienced attorney will review your situation to determine whether you have a valid age discrimination claim.
- Evidence Collection: Gathering evidence, such as emails, performance reviews, and witness testimony, is crucial to proving your claim.
- Negotiations: Many age discrimination cases can be resolved through settlement negotiations without going to court.
- Legal Representation: If your case goes to trial, a skilled attorney will represent you and advocate for your rights.
Working with a Los Angeles age discrimination lawyer ensures you have a strong advocate fighting for your rights.
How to Recognize Age Discrimination
Age discrimination may not always be obvious. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Sudden Performance Issues: You receive negative performance reviews despite no changes in your work.
- Inappropriate Comments: Colleagues or managers make age-related jokes or comments.
- Passed Over for Younger Employees: Promotions or assignments are consistently given to younger, less experienced employees.
- Targeted for Layoffs: You are selected for layoffs despite a long history of satisfactory performance.
If you recognize any warning signs, it’s time to speak with an age discrimination attorney.
Filing an Age Discrimination Claim
Taking action promptly is critical in age discrimination cases. In California, you generally have one year to file a claim with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Your Los Angeles age discrimination lawyer will help ensure all deadlines are met and your claim is properly filed.
Steps in the claims process include:
- Filing a Complaint: Submitting a formal complaint to the DFEH or EEOC.
- Investigation: The agency investigates the complaint and may offer mediation or attempt to settle the case.
- Litigation: If no resolution is reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Contact Crown Law Group, PC, for Legal Help
If you have experienced age discrimination, Crown Law Group, PC is here to help. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the justice you deserve. We understand age discrimination’s emotional and financial toll and are committed to securing a favorable outcome for every client.
Take the first step toward justice by scheduling a free consultation with a Los Angeles age discrimination lawyer. Call us today at 310-734-0504 to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights.
