Workplace discrimination is unacceptable and should be reported. This could refer to something like denying benefits to an employee or firing someone because of their race, nationality, or marital status. State and federal laws prohibit any form of workplace discrimination on the basis of age, nationality, religion, race, sex, sexual orientation, disability, color. If you have suffered something that is unlawful, unethical or is in clear violation of your job contact, you should consider lawyering up. In this post, we are sharing the top tips for working with an employment discrimination attorney.
Examples of discrimination
Discrimination cases are often complex, but here are a few examples for your better understanding –
- You were fired from the job because you got pregnant
- You were denied a promotion because of your age
- You were wrongfully terminated for reporting a supervisor
- You suffered sexual harassment
- Your colleague/boss/supervisor has been passing inappropriate comments
- You were subjected to a hostile work environment
- Your boss has demanded sexual favors in return for certain benefits
- You were punished for whistleblowing
Meeting an employment lawyer
Most employment lawyers and law firms offer a free initial consultation, and this is your best window for knowing your attorney. Make a list of questions that you would want to ask during the meeting. Include questions like –
- How often do you take up discrimination & harassment cases?
- How long have you been practicing as an employment lawyer?
- Have you worked on similar discrimination/harassment cases?
- What do you think of my case? What are the likely outcomes?
- Will you work on a contingency fee?
- What are the expected costs of the case?
- Will you work on the case, or will an associate be assigned?
- Do you have experience representing clients at trial?
- How often do you go to trial?
Be honest
An employment lawyer can only help you when you are honest about the circumstances and facts of your case. For instance, if you believe you have done something that may have triggered a reaction from the other party, let the attorney know. Lawyers often have to negotiate with the other side to avoid a trial, and knowing the facts and minute details will only help your attorney.
Many employment lawyers work on a contingency fee, where they get a percentage of your financial statement. Ask for the details in advance and ensure that the law firm you select has positive reviews. You can also ask for references.
