What is Gender Discrimination?
New Jersey and federal laws prohibit employers from discriminating on the basis of gender.
Gender or sex discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unequally based on the fact that the employee is a woman or is a man.
Throughout the entire employment process, the policies and practices in the workplace should be equal between both men and women including hiring, compensation, layoffs, promotions, training, working conditions, benefits, and more.
An employer cannot make employee decisions based on gender stereotypes and other assumptions about men and women.
The New Jersey gender discrimination attorneys at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble understand how difficult the decision to bring a discrimination claim against your employer can be and will help you understand all of your options and decide what is best for you.
We also understand how sensitive and complex these cases can be for our clients. That’s why we made sure that only the most experienced and skilled gender discrimination lawyers work on these cases.
Gender Discrimination Can Take Many Shapes
Gender discrimination is a significant problem, but sometimes it’s not immediately evident. The most common type of gender discrimination that may immediately come to mind is men discriminating against women, but it surely does not end there. This kind of discrimination can appear in a variety of ways, including:
- Refusing to hire or give promotions to someone based on gender;
- Evaluating employees harshly or holding employees to different standards depending on their gender;
- Disciplining employees for the same acts other employees of a different gender are never reprimanded for;
- Calling employees derogatory names based on their gender or gender identity;
- Verbal or physical harassment;
- Giving benefits to wives of male employees but not to husbands of employees who are women;
- Paying a male employee more than a female employee in a substantially similar position;
- Refusing to hire or promote an employee because of his or her family responsibilities; and
- Refusing to promote a woman because she is pregnant or intends to become pregnant.
It is important to note that gender discrimination cases can be challenging to prove and win for people with no legal background and experience. What you need is a helping legal hand to win your gender discrimination case. All discrimination is unacceptable in the modern world.
When our gender discrimination attorneys help you win a case, you send a strong message to the employers who aren’t treating their employees right. On the other hand, your legal success may also encourage other employees facing similar issues to take a stand and fight for their rights.
Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Your Rights in the Workplace
By law, your employer must provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. If your employer is discriminating against you or is allowing discrimination to continue, you have a right to seek legal help.
Retaliation is also illegal. If you report the ongoing gender discrimination or take a stand against it, it is against the law for your employer to retaliate against you. Your employer may retaliate in many ways, including:
- Demoting you,
- Decreasing your pay,
- Cutting your work hours,
- Forcing your to take leave,
- Assigning you to another job or location, or
- Firing you.
Take a stand against gender discrimination without fear. Consult with a gender discrimination attorney as soon as possible.
What to Do If You Face Gender Discrimination in the Workplace
If you’re subject to gender discrimination at work, don’t sit idly by. There are steps you can take to correct the problem before removing yourself from the situation altogether.
Report the Discrimination
If your employer or supervisor is not the source of the gender discrimination, be sure to report the responsible party right away. Give your employer an opportunity to correct the issue before taking further action.
It is best to document your complaint in written format, rather than just discussing the issue in person, in case you need proof in the future.
REVIEW COMPANY POLICIES AND LAWS
Take the time to familiarize yourself with your company’s policies regarding discrimination and harassment. Research federal, state, and local laws that protect employees from gender-based discrimination. This knowledge will empower you to better understand your rights and options moving forward.
EXPLORE INTERNAL RESOURCES
Many companies have internal resources such as HR departments or employee assistance programs. These avenues can offer additional support and guidance in addressing workplace discrimination. Reach out to these resources to discuss your concerns and seek advice on the best course of action.
SEEK ALLIES AND SUPPORT
Facing discrimination can be emotionally taxing, but remember that you are not alone. Connect with coworkers, mentors, or employee resource groups that may have experience dealing with similar situations. Their insights and support can provide you with strength and perspective as you navigate through this challenging time.
DOCUMENT INCIDENTS
As you experience gender discrimination, keep detailed records of each incident. Include dates, times, locations, people involved, and any witnesses. This documentation will serve as crucial evidence should you decide to pursue legal action or escalate the matter within your organization.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE
Dealing with discrimination is stressful, so prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that help you manage stress and maintain a healthy emotional state. Seeking therapy or counseling can also provide a safe space to process your feelings and develop coping strategies.
CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS
While pursuing resolution within your current workplace is important, also consider your long-term well-being. If the situation remains unresolved and your well-being continues to suffer, exploring new job opportunities or speaking to career advisors might be a viable option.
Consult with an NJ Gender Discrimination Attorney
Discussing your situation with a gender discrimination lawyer is highly beneficial. Your consultation will allow the attorney to review your case, gather details, and answer any questions you may have. You can feel peace of mind knowing your lawyer is well versed in gender discrimination cases and will fight for you and your rights.
Why Hire Us?
O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble has gained the respect and admiration of the community for its hard-working team, aggressive representation, and unique understanding.
Our firm has had the pleasure of representing thousands of wronged employees, putting them on the path to mental, emotional, and financial recovery. Gender discrimination is never acceptable. Let us provide the helping hand you need to seek justice and protect your rights.