Even though the United States has implemented strict laws against discrimination in the workplace, many employees still admit to facing employee discrimination from time to time. Some discrimination types are based on race, age, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, and disability.
If you have experienced discrimination or harassment from your employer, an employer discrimination lawyer in Beaufort, SC, may be able to help you. Shelly Leeke Law Firm is up-to-date and knowledgeable regarding employment discrimination and legal protections for South Carolina workers.
Explaining Employment Discrimination
Employment discrimination is when your employer or other workplace employees discriminate against you for any reason. This is considered unlawful conduct, as most companies have discriminatory policies. Discrimination laws are also developed at the local and federal levels to protect employees.
The following are some of the personal traits people have been discriminated against for in the workplace:
- Age
- Race
- Sexual orientation
- Sex or gender identity
- Pregnancy
- Physical and cognitive disabilities
- Religion
If an employer has used these traits when deciding about hiring, promotions, terminations, or pay, they most likely have broken the law. Harassment because of any of these traits is also against the law. A Beaufort employer discrimination attorney at the Shelly Leeke Law Firm can answer all of your questions and help you build a case.
Types of Employee Discrimination Cases We Have Handled
Most employers are aware of the laws surrounding employee discrimination. As a result, they will try their best to minimize the extent of their wrongdoings. If you have worked for a business for a long period, you may notice instances of discrimination.
Some of the most common types of discrimination cases we have handled include the following:
- Denying company benefits
- Losing hours or pay
- Denying maternity leave
- Denying disability pay
- Wrongful terminations
- Refusing retirement
- Showing favoritism to certain employees
- Not interviewing or hiring certain people
If an employer has made rude comments to you because of your traits, this is discrimination and can cause psychological trauma. No one wants to work in a negative work environment or feel forced to leave a job because of their treatment by others at work. By hiring an employer discrimination attorney in Beaufort, SC, you can relax knowing that our team has worked on other cases like yours, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.
The Types of Damages that Can Come from an Employer Discrimination Case
The goal of our employer discrimination attorneys at Shelly Leeke Law Firm is to ensure our clients receive damages to cover their losses. We will look over the details and evidence of your discrimination case and do our best to win the following damages:
- Lost pay
- Psychological suffering and pain
- Financial damages from lost benefits
- Punitive damages
We understand that the losses you have experienced are most likely causing you stress, frustration, and overwhelming feelings. Our lawyers are here to help you. We will work hard to secure the compensation you need to get back on your feet and make ends meet.
Determining if You Are Protected Under Anti-Discrimination Laws
There are federal laws as well as South Carolina state laws that prohibit discrimination from employers. The South Carolina Human Affairs Commission has implemented a law stating that “it is illegal to discriminate against someone (applicant or employee) because of that person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or related medical condition), national origin, age (40 or older), or disability.”
Suppose you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace. In that case, you and your lawyer will develop a claim, collect evidence to support your claim, and build a strong case against the defendant who discriminated against you.
What to Do if You Have Experienced Discrimination in the Workplace
When you have been discriminated against in the workplace, it does not bring a good feeling. It causes a hostile work environment. However, you must remember to protect your rights and ensure that your side of the story is heard, which you can do by following these steps:
Document Everything in Writing
Anytime you feel like someone discriminates against you, it is important to have documentation that provides details on what happened to you and when the incident occurred. This will help your lawyer determine the time, the person, and how often the discrimination happened.
Report the Discrimination to a Superior
Most of the time, you can report a discrimination issue to your employer. If your boss discriminates against you, determine if there is someone else you can report the incident to. Always keep a copy of the report for your records to show that you did file a report.
Avoid Interactions with the Person Discriminating Against You
The best advice we can give is to stay away from the individual discriminating against you. This is to keep yourself out of a toxic situation and ensure that things do not escalate. However, if you cannot avoid the individual, ensure you continue to document any further negative comments made to you.
Contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
If you have reported the discrimination to your company and nothing has changed, reach out to the federal company called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Hire a Beaufort Employer Discrimination Lawyer
While the laws around employer discrimination are complex, a South Carolina employer discrimination attorney will be able to guide you through the process and explain your legal options.
Contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm if You Have Experienced Any Type of Employment Discrimination
If you have experienced any employment discrimination, Shelly Leeke Law Firm is here to help you. We will use our skills and knowledge to ensure that you are treated fairly and receive compensation to cover your financial and emotional hardships from this situation. Fill out our contact form, or call our office, and we will set up your free consultation as soon as possible.
A Beaufort employer discrimination attorney will be able to review your case and provide an honest assessment so you know what to expect.
