Posted By Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz || 10-Feb-2016
There are few situations as frustrating and upsetting as being discriminated against at work. You likely depend on your job to support you and your family, and discrimination can put you between a rock and a hard place, so to speak – you want to leave the discriminatory environment, but you need the income the job provides.
In many cases of discrimination, you have a right to pursue justice and hold your employer liable for their illegal behavior. In other cases, however, the discriminatory action can actually be legal. In this blog, we take a look at what constitutes “unlawful discrimination;” if you believe you have been mistreated, call our Pittsburgh employment attorney today.
Do you believe you are being discriminated against? Call today for your free initial consultation
Understanding “Protected Classes”
In its most basic form, discrimination is actually a critical component of the business world – when hiring a new employee, for example, business owners may “discriminate” against those who are unqualified. Both the Pennsylvania and Federal governments, however, have specified certain classes, or characteristics, which cannot be targeted for discrimination.
Federally protected classes include, but are not limited to:
- Race
- Color
- Religion
- National origin
- Sex
- Age (for those over 40)
- Pregnancy
- Disability status
The most recently added protected class is Genetic Information. Since 2008, it is illegal for health insurance providers and employers alike to discriminate based on a person’s DNA. This prevents employers from firing employees based on their risk of a serious health condition, and is an important protection as the cost of healthcare continues to rise.
Stand Up Against Discrimination. Call 412-391-3030 Today.
Unlawful discrimination is easy to understand on paper, but can often be far more subtle or complex in real life. If you feel that you are being discriminated against at work, it’s important to contact a Pittsburgh employment lawyer who can help you understand your options.
At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, we understand that you may be hesitant to pursue legal action against your employer. However, you have a right to hold discriminatory employers accountable for their actions. Not only can you help improve your situation, you can help prevent others from suffering in the same way.
We can help you fight back against discriminatory action. Call 412-391-3030 to learn more.
Categories:Employment Law