Workplace Discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant less favorably because of a legally protected characteristic. Discrimination can affect hiring, pay, promotions, scheduling, job assignments, discipline, benefits, workplace opportunities, and termination.

California law prohibits employment discrimination based on protected characteristics that include race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, medical condition, age over 40, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, and other legally protected categories.

Not every unfair workplace decision is necessarily illegal. A potential discrimination claim generally involves evidence that the employee’s protected characteristic played a role in the employer’s decision or treatment. Warning signs may include biased comments, inconsistent explanations, different treatment of similarly situated employees, sudden negative evaluations, or discipline that begins after an employer learns about a protected characteristic.

Smith Law helps California workers evaluate the circumstances, documentation, workplace history, and timing surrounding possible discrimination.

You deserve to be evaluated based on your work—not your identity or protected status. Contact Smith Law for a confidential consultation.