Defining and defying discrimination on your own can be difficult. While the law allows you to hold your employer liable for certain discriminatory actions taken against you, you may be required to provide proof of the discrimination and its negative impact on you.

If you were the victim of situations like refusing to hire, making a hostile work environment, denying making reasonable accommodations, demoting you, and firing you you may have a case of discrimination.

How to Determine Whether you need a Discrimination Lawyer

You don’t have to fight for your rights alone. A discrimination lawyer in your area may be able to assist you in navigating the process, defending your rights, and fighting for your rights on your behalf.

Discrimination Types

Discrimination can manifest itself in a variety of ways, all of which can have a negative impact on your career. The law prohibits discrimination based on the following grounds:

• Race/Color
• Nationality Religion Age Sex Disability
• Pregnancy
• Sexual preference
• Information pertaining to genetics

Generally, treating an employee unfavorably because of these categories may constitute discrimination. Here are some specific examples of discrimination:

• Harassing someone or making disparaging remarks about their country of origin
• Unwilling to make reasonable accommodations that would allow an employee to perform their duties while also practicing their religion
• Having policies in place that are detrimental to employees over the age of 40
• Refusing to provide disabled employee’s with reasonable accommodations that allow them to perform their duties
• Maligning a woman because she is pregnant or has a medical condition that is related to her pregnancy.
• Hiring and firing someone solely on the person’s sexual preferences

If you were discriminated against, you may be able to seek restitution from the responsible party. A discrimination lawyer may be able to assist you in determining which federal and state discrimination laws apply to your situation.

Conduct a cost-benefit analysis with you

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a discrimination lawyer is that your lawyer can use his or her years of experience to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for you. They can explain the strengths and weaknesses of your case, the costs of discovery and trial, and the types and amounts of damages you may be able to recover if you win.

Your lawyer will also evaluate the chances of success and notify you if this assessment changes as the case progresses, allowing you to make informed decisions throughout the trial process.

Attorney’s Fees and Expenses

Before hiring a lawyer, make sure to get a breakdown of how attorneys’ fees and costs will be calculated in your case. Attorney fees vary depending on the course of action you choose. Some cases or services take longer or are more difficult to complete than others, resulting in higher fees. Drafting a letter, for example, is likely to be far less expensive than representing you in court.

Closure

Another valuable asset that an employment lawyer can provide is closure. Your lawyer can assist you in moving on from the unpleasant experience you had with your employer.

This may occur through trial vindication, but it is more likely to occur through a settlement that enables you to transition emotionally and financially to a new job or career path. Part of your attorney’s job is to get you to the next stage.

Takeaway

After being fired or mistreated, it’s natural to feel powerless. However, your lawyer can assist you in regaining some of that power by providing you with the information you need to take action as a response to your employer’s wrongdoings or to evaluate your options and make an informed decision that is in your best interests.

You may want to consult with a law firm or an individual discrimination lawyer who specializes in discrimination cases to set the parameters of your statement and your possible right to financial recovery.

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