Columbia, MD Gender Discrimination Lawyers

Protecting Employees' Rights Against Gender Discrimination

There are multiple forms of discrimination that can affect employees' ability to work in a fair and equitable environment. Gender discrimination or sex discrimination affects people in many industries, and employees may need to take steps to address unfair treatment or respond to actions taken by employers that have affected their careers or caused them to suffer emotional distress. At Freedman Law, LLC, our employment law attorneys can help employees determine the best ways to address gender discrimination. We can also assist employers in responding to claims made by employees and ensuring that they meet all legal requirements for providing a discrimination-free workplace.

Understanding Gender Discrimination

There are multiple ways that employees may be treated unfairly or differently based on their sex, gender identity, or family status. This form of discrimination is prohibited under both federal and state laws. When an employee's rights have been violated, they may take steps to ensure that an employer complies with the law, and they may also be able to recover compensation for the harm they have suffered. Gender discrimination cases may address issues such as:

• Sex Discrimination: Discrimination against both men and women may manifest in various ways, such as unequal pay, disparate treatment in hiring or promotions, or harassment. For example, if a female employee has been passed over for promotions, and other, less qualified colleagues have been given undeserved opportunities, this could be considered sex discrimination. Additionally, sexual harassment, including unwanted advances, comments, or behavior of a sexual nature, is a form of sex discrimination. Employees who experience sex discrimination should be aware that they have legal protections and options to address these issues.
• Discrimination Based on Gender Identity: There are many situations where employees may be treated unfairly because of their gender identity or gender expression. This includes discrimination against transgender employees or those who do not conform to traditional gender norms. For instance, an employer who refuses to hire or promote someone because they are transgender or who creates a hostile work environment by refusing to use a person's correct pronouns is engaging in gender identity discrimination. These actions are illegal, and employees subjected to this form of discrimination have the right to seek legal recourse.
• Discrimination Based on Family Status: This form of discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly due to their responsibilities as a parent or caregiver or their marital status. This can include discrimination against pregnant employees, people with young children, new mothers who need accommodations for pumping breast milk, or employees caring for sick or elderly family members. Examples of family status discrimination include denying a promotion to a pregnant employee based on the assumption that she will be less committed to her job, not allowing an employee to return to their previous position after taking family medical leave, or refusing to accommodate a parent's need for a flexible work schedule to care for a child. Employees should know that the law protects them from discrimination based on their family responsibilities and that they have the right to request reasonable accommodations without fear of retaliation.

The Impact of Gender Discrimination on Employees

Sex discrimination can have far-reaching effects on an employee's career, mental health, and overall well-being. It can create a hostile work environment, making it difficult for the employee to perform their job effectively and causing significant stress and anxiety. In some cases, gender discrimination can lead to lost opportunities, such as being passed over for promotions or receiving lower pay than colleagues for performing the same work. Moreover, employees who experience gender discrimination may suffer from diminished self-esteem, leading to a decrease in job satisfaction and productivity.

Protecting Employees' Rights

Employees who believe they have been subjected to gender discrimination can take steps to address the harm they have suffered and make sure they will be treated fairly. It is important to document incidents of discrimination, such as discriminatory comments, actions, or patterns of behavior. All relevant evidence should be preserved, including emails, text messages, or performance evaluations. When discriminatory practices are reported to supervisors, human resources departments, or other appropriate authorities within an organization, employers are required to take action to address and prevent further discrimination.

If an employee's complaint is not adequately addressed, they may need to escalate the matter by filing a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or state agencies. This can be a complex process, but Freedman Law, LLC is here to provide guidance and support in these matters. Our attorneys can work with employees to gather evidence, file the proper paperwork, and provide legal representation in negotiations, mediation, or courtroom proceedings.

Representing Employers in Gender Discrimination Cases

In addition to helping employees address gender discrimination, Freedman Law, LLC also provides comprehensive legal services for employers who are involved in these types of cases. Gender discrimination claims can have serious legal and financial implications for businesses, and it is essential for employers to address these issues promptly and effectively. Our attorneys assist employers in navigating gender discrimination disputes, ensuring that they take the correct steps to resolve conflicts and prevent future incidents.

Contact Our McLean, VA Sex Discrimination Attorneys

At Freedman Law, LLC, our experienced employment law attorneys can provide the legal guidance and representation needed to help employees and employers address complex issues related to discrimination. Whether you are seeking justice for discriminatory treatment or need assistance resolving a workplace dispute, we are ready to advocate for your rights and interests. Contact us by calling 410-290-6230 to set up a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and ensure a fair workplace.