Gender discrimination can be blatant or subdued. Sometimes, another person may not even know they are doing it — a condition called inherent bias. No matter the circumstances, it can be upsetting and disruptive to your career.
Gender discrimination can range from not receiving a promotion because of gender and being refused employment because of pregnancy to hearing offensive comments at the workplace. If any of these scenarios sound familiar, you may have a claim for gender discrimination. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission gets over 20,000 gender discrimination claims each year, alleging conduct like sexism, sexual harassment and pregnancy discrimination.
Who Must Follow Gender Discrimination Laws?
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 applies to any employer with 15 or more employees in every aspect of employment. Additionally, in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (“PHRA”) applies to any employer with 4 or more employees. These laws apply to current and former employees as well as applicants. Employers may also be liable for the actions of other employees, vendors, visitors and customers while on company property. Protection may also extend to employer-sponsored events away from the primary work location, such as at conventions and holiday parties.
The sex of the recipient and perpetrator of gender discrimination is immaterial — they can both be of the same sex. While it’s true that women are more often targets of gender discrimination than men, the law’s protections extend equally to those of either sex.
When Should You Consult a Gender Discrimination Attorney?
When you first think your employer or prospective employer has violated your rights due to your sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, it’s time to consult an attorney for legal guidance. Common types of gender discrimination that occur include acts related to:
- Hirings and terminations.
- Compensation.
- Provision of benefits, including retirement plans and paid time off (PTO).
- Training and career advancement.
Other types of potential discrimination include sexual harassment and assault. Many worry that they will be discriminated against further after filing a claim. Your employer or prospective employer can’t retaliate against you for filing a claim.
Why Work With a Gender Discrimination Lawyer?
Gender discrimination lawyers work with their clients to rectify unfair employment practices. Your attorney will build your case, manage filings and deadlines and help you determine the financial award you may receive.
Having an attorney by your side to tell your story in its most compelling form may also spur the other party to settle. Your chances of a better outcome improve with guidance and knowledge of complex laws, which an experienced lawyer brings to your case.
Protect Your Rights With Weisberg Cummings, P.C.
When you need an experienced gender discrimination attorney on your side, Weisberg Cummings is a clear choice. We have over 40 years of combined experience protecting our clients’ rights across the employment law spectrum.
Schedule a free consultation today, and we’ll work together to develop a step-by-step strategy to get you the outcome your gender discrimination case deserves.
