LGBTQ+ Discrimination
Employment Lawyers
California is known as one of the most inclusive states in the country for the LGBTQ+ community. However, that does not mean that workplace discrimination is nonexistent. If you have experienced any form of discrimination or harassment at your place of work due to your sexual orientation or gender identity, you may be entitled to compensation.
At M&A Law Offices, we are dedicated to providing aggressive representation for employees who have been treated unfairly at work. Our employment lawyers are committed to helping you obtain the justice you deserve.
If you have been a victim of LGBTQ+ discrimination, contact our firm at (888) 716-4314 to schedule a consultation.
California’s LGBTQ+ Workplace Protections
California is one of the most progressive states when it comes to workplace protections for the LGBTQ+ community. Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), it is illegal to discriminate against employees on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
FEHA protections include the following:
- Employers are prohibited from discriminating against, harassing, or retaliating against employees or job applicants based on their sexual orientation or gender identity
- Employers are required to take all reasonable steps to prevent discrimination, harassment, and retaliation
- Employers must accommodate employees’ gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation
- Employers cannot segregate or separate employees based on their sexual orientation or gender identity
- Employers are required to investigate complaints of discrimination and harassment
- Employers are required to take appropriate action to prevent further discrimination and harassment
- Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees who have gender identity conditions
- Employers are required to use an employee’s preferred name and pronouns
- Employers are required to provide equal access to restrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities
These protections extend to all employers in California with five or more employees.
Why Choose M&A Law Offices?
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9-Step Case ProcessWe have a tried and true, case-tested process to help get you the results and restitution you’re entitled to. Learn More
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We Handle All Types of Employment Law
M&A Law Offices has established itself as a go-to law firm in California for victims of all types of employment law cases.
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Serving the Community for Over 20 YearsLawrence is a lifelong business professional working in the public and private sector.
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Transparency of ServiceYou will not pay us anything until we have secured a settlement or result from your employer. This means that we fight for you to get you the best result.
California’s Transgender Rights in the Workplace
In addition to the above protections, California has also enacted specific protections for employees who are transgender. The Transgender Work Opportunity Act (TWOA) and the Transgender Rights in the Workplace Act (TROWA) both require employers to provide equal opportunities to transgender employees.
These protections include the following:
- Employers are prohibited from discriminating against, harassing, or retaliating against employees based on their gender identity or gender expression
- Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees who have gender identity conditions
- Employers must provide equal access to restrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities
- Employers are required to use an employee’s preferred name and pronouns
These protections extend to all employers in California, regardless of the number of employees.
What to Do If You Are a Victim of LGBTQ+ Discrimination
If you are the victim of LGBTQ+ discrimination or harassment, there are several steps you can take to protect your rights.
Here are a few things you should do:
- Document the discrimination: Keep a detailed record of all discrimination or harassment you experience at work. This should include dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. If you receive any offensive emails, texts, or other messages, be sure to keep copies of them as well.
- Report the discrimination: If you feel comfortable doing so, report the discrimination to your employer. They may have policies in place that can help you resolve the issue. Be sure to follow up with a written letter or email that includes all the details of the harassment.
- File a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH): If your employer does not take appropriate action, you can file a complaint with the DFEH. They will investigate the claim and may require you to request a right-to-sue letter before taking legal action.
- Contact an attorney: An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand your legal options and ensure your rights are protected.
At M&L Law Offices, our attorneys can help you take legal action against your employer if you have experienced any form of LGBTQ+ discrimination or harassment.
What Compensation Can I Receive for LGBTQ+ Discrimination?
If you have been a victim of LGBTQ+ discrimination, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. This may include lost wages, lost benefits, emotional distress, and attorney’s fees.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to reinstatement or front pay if you were wrongfully terminated due to your sexual orientation or gender identity.
How Our Firm Can Help You
At M&L Law Offices, we can help you file a claim against your employer if you have been a victim of LGBTQ+ discrimination. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options, and we will work with you to develop a strong case strategy. We can also help you gather evidence, build your case, file all necessary paperwork, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have been a victim of LGBTQ+ discrimination, it is important to take legal action as soon as possible. In California, you only have one year from the date of the discrimination to file a claim against your employer. Our Carlsbad employment lawyers can provide the strong legal representation you need to obtain a favorable outcome in your case.
Contact our firm online or call us today at (888) 716-4314 to schedule a consultation.