Los Angeles Disability Discrimination Lawyer

Disability discrimination is an unfortunate reality that many employees face in the workplace. Whether it is blatant or subtle, being discriminated against because of a disability can have a significant emotional, mental, and financial impact on individuals. If you believe you have been subjected to disability discrimination, it is important to understand your rights and seek professional legal counsel from a qualified Los Angeles disability discrimination lawyer. Disability discrimination can include direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, harassment, failure to provide reasonable accommodation, retaliation, denial of equal opportunities, and segregation in the workplace.

Understanding Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly because of a physical or mental disability. It violates federal and state laws that protect individuals with disabilities in the workplace, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). These laws require employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities and prohibit discrimination based on their condition.

Your Rights as an Employee with a Disability

As a worker in California, you are protected under federal and state laws from disability discrimination. These include:

1. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): This federal law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs. Under the ADA, employers with 15 or more employees must provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.
2. California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): The FEHA offers similar protections to those of the ADA, but it applies to employers with five or more employees. This law further ensures that individuals with disabilities are treated equally in hiring, promotions, training, and other employment aspects.
3. Reasonable Accommodations: Both the ADA and FEHA require employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities. These accommodations can include modified work schedules, specialized equipment, or changes to the work environment to help employees perform their job duties.

Types of Disability Discrimination

Discrimination can take many forms in the workplace, including:

• Hiring and Firing Discrimination: Denying employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities or firing someone because of their disability is illegal.
• Harassment: If an employee with a disability is harassed or mistreated by coworkers or management because of their condition, it constitutes discrimination. Harassment can include derogatory comments, insults, or unwanted behavior.
• Failure to Provide Reasonable Accommodation: Employers are required by law to make reasonable adjustments to the workplace to accommodate employees with disabilities. Failing to do so is considered discriminatory.
• Unequal Treatment or Compensation: Employees with disabilities should receive the same pay, benefits, and opportunities as those without disabilities. If an employer gives preferential treatment to non-disabled workers, it can be grounds for a disability discrimination lawsuit.

Statistics on Disability Discrimination in the Workplace

• National Statistics: According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), disability discrimination cases comprise about 30% of all charges filed under the ADA and similar state laws.
• California Data: The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) receives thousands of complaints annually regarding disability discrimination. In 2020 alone, over 1,000 disability discrimination claims were filed in the state, showing the widespread nature of this issue.
• Impact on Employees: The consequences of disability discrimination can be devastating. Employees who experience discrimination often face emotional distress, financial hardship, and lost opportunities for career growth. Studies show that employees who face discrimination are more likely to experience stress-related health issues and decreased job satisfaction.

How a Disability Discrimination Attorney Can Help

If you believe you have been a victim of disability discrimination, consulting with an experienced Los Angeles disability discrimination attorney can significantly increase your chances of success in pursuing justice. A disability discrimination attorney can:

1. Assess Your Case: Your attorney will thoroughly review the facts of your case to determine whether you have grounds for a legal claim under federal or state law.
2. Navigate the Legal Process: Filing a disability discrimination claim can be complicated. A skilled attorney will guide you through the process, from filing complaints with the EEOC or DFEH to representing you in court.
3. Negotiate for a Fair Settlement: In many cases, disability discrimination claims can be resolved through settlements. Your attorney will negotiate to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your suffering, including lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
4. Protect Your Rights: Disability discrimination cases often involve complex legal issues. A knowledgeable lawyer will ensure that your rights are upheld, protecting you from retaliation and unfair treatment during the claims process.
5. Advocate for Equal Opportunity: In addition to helping you recover damages, a skilled attorney can advocate for systemic changes in the workplace to prevent future instances of discrimination and create a fairer and more inclusive environment for all employees.

Common Forms of Disability Discrimination Lawsuits

A Los Angeles disability discrimination lawyer may help with various types of legal actions, including:

• Failure to accommodate claims: If your employer has refused to provide reasonable accommodations, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
• Termination claims: If you have been fired due to your disability, you may be entitled to compensation.
• Harassment claims: If you have been subjected to hostile behavior due to your disability, your attorney can help you take legal action.

Conclusion

Disability discrimination in the workplace is illegal and should never be tolerated. If you believe that your rights have been violated, you deserve to have an experienced Los Angeles disability discrimination lawyer at Crown Law Group, PC, on your side. With the right legal representation, you can fight for justice and ensure that your rights are protected.

Contact Crown Law Group, PC, today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Let us help you take the necessary steps to protect your future and achieve your deserved compensation.

Call us at 310-734-0504 to schedule a free consultation with a skilled disability discrimination attorney.