Your Silver Spring employment litigation lawyer can help you protect your rights and fight back if you’re experiencing discrimination. At Eric Siegel Law, we’ve spent 30 years helping our clients protect their rights in real estate, business, and other fields. Now, we’re ready to use our experience to help you. Read on to learn more about discrimination, and get in touch with us today to get started on your case.
What Constitutes Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfavorably because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (if 40 or older), disability, or genetic information. Discrimination can affect any aspect of employment including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, benefits, and any other term or condition of employment.
Gathering Evidence
The first step in proving discrimination is gathering compelling evidence. This evidence can take various forms:
Direct Evidence: This includes statements or actions by managers or other company officials directly indicating a discriminatory motive. Examples might include emails, text messages, or recorded conversations where discriminatory language or intent is clear.
Circumstantial Evidence: Most discrimination cases rely on circumstantial evidence. This can include showing that you belong to a protected class, were qualified for the job or promotion you were denied, and that the opportunity was given to someone of a different class who was less qualified.
Policies and Practices: Sometimes, a company’s policies can seem neutral but unfairly disadvantage certain employees. Statistical data showing a disproportionate impact on a particular group can be powerful evidence of discrimination.
Comparison with Peers: Demonstrating that you were treated differently from other employees under similar circumstances can support a discrimination claim. This might involve showing disparities in pay, promotions, or the handling of disciplinary actions.
Document Everything
Keeping detailed records is crucial when you suspect discrimination. Document incidents and conversations, keep emails and any written communication, and note dates, times, witnesses, and descriptions of events. A detailed record can significantly strengthen your case by providing a clear timeline and context for the discriminatory behavior.
Seek Corroboration
Whenever possible, try to obtain statements or testimony from colleagues who have witnessed the discrimination. Third-party witnesses can provide objective accounts that support your claims. Additionally, gather any performance reviews and employment records that demonstrate a history of good performance, particularly if your case involves unfair job actions following positive reviews.
Legal Challenges
Proving discrimination can be legally complex. Given the subtleties of law and the challenges inherent in demonstrating discriminatory intent, it’s important to get in touch with a Silver Spring employment litigation lawyer you can trust. A knowledgeable attorney can help navigate the legal system, advocate on your behalf, and work to ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact Us Today
At Eric Siegel Law, we understand the emotional and professional toll that discrimination can take. If you believe you are the victim of workplace discrimination, we are here to help. Our team is committed to providing clear, effective guidance and strong representation. Contact us today to discuss your case, and see how a Silver Spring employment litigation lawyer from our office can help.