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Federal and state laws protect Californians and their jobs

On Behalf of | Jun 7, 2018 | Firm News, Wrongful Termination |

Discrimination against protected groups is prohibited by federal and California law. Offenses may take the form of verbal abuse, limited opportunities or wrongful termination. The Golden State’s Fair Employment and Housing Act names race, color, gender, disability and religion among other classes that create a protected group.

Other laws also protect all people’s access to work. A portion of California’s Education Code prohibits discrimination in the awarding of credentials and positions within school boards. Any entity supported by state funding is separately enjoined from discriminatory practices. Labor codes also prevent discrimination in specific industries and positions.

Any employee in California, as long as they work in a company with five or more employees, may expect these protections. All government employees and contractors are protected against discrimination or arbitrary termination.

California’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) accepts complaints against workers and companies if employees are subjected to harassment, discrimination or firing without proper cause. Lawsuits are an option to rectify problems if a complaint does not create an acceptable solution. The DFEH will inform complainants of these rights.

Various federal and state laws also make it illegal to discriminate against people during the hiring process as well as during employment. If someone believes they were denied work or fired due to illegal discrimination, an attorney may help guide the next steps.

Workers deserve restitution if their careers have been damaged by discrimination. A lawyer may help build a case in settlement or before a jury in civil court for the damages a person deserves and the changes that society deserves.

Source: California Attorney General’s Office, “Unlawful Discrimination,” accessed June 07, 2018