In June of 2020, our nation experienced significant social progress when the Supreme Court ruled the provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 cover sexual orientation. While it’s now the case that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and nonbinary individuals (LGBTQ+) have more protection under the law than before, discrimination based on sexual orientation is sometimes still an issue.
Which Employers Must Follow Sexual Orientation Discrimination Laws?
As a result of the Supreme Court’s ruling, the terms of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 now apply. Most organizations with 15 or more employees, labor unions and employment agencies must abide by the law in all employment practices, including recruiting, providing benefits and promotion. There are a few exceptions for private associations and religious entities. Some states and cities also have anti-discrimination laws for employers operating within their boundaries that may offer additional legal protection. For instance, in Pennsylvania, employers with 4 or more employees are bound by similar provisions contained in the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.
An experienced lawyer is the best source of information to determine if you have a case for sexual orientation discrimination.
When Should You Consult a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorney?
Your gender status or the person you love shouldn’t be the basis of employment decisions. Yet, there are many things an employer or potential employer can do that could be sexual orientation discrimination. Contact an experienced attorney if you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community and believe any of the following apply:
- A prospective employer refused to hire you based on your orientation or gender identity.
- An employer disciplined or fired you based on your lifestyle.
- An employer denied you a promotion, training or benefits based on your sexual characteristics.
- An employer harassed you about your individuality or permitted others — including co-workers, visitors or customers — to do so while in the workplace.
Benefits of Working With a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer
Working with knowledgeable discrimination attorneys like those at Weisberg Cummings offers many advantages, including:
- Experience: A seasoned legal professional can refer to previous cases to identify practical and personalized strategies for moving forward.
- Negotiation skills: Their expertise in negotiating may result in a financial settlement for you, depending on the circumstances of your case.
- Advocacy: If litigation becomes necessary, a skilled attorney can help guide you to justice while protecting your legal rights.
- Expertise: Discrimination law can be complex, and various requirements exist for how and when to file complaints with state and federal agencies. Your lawyer can handle communications and filings on your behalf.
Work With an Experienced Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorney
If you believe you have a sexual orientation discrimination case, you need skilled legal representation. Get the counsel you deserve from the passionate attorneys at Weisberg Cummings. With over 40 years of combined experience, we know what it takes to defend against sexual orientation discrimination. Our attorneys fight to protect your rights to be free from harassment and discriminatory employment practices.
Please contact a caring team member today for personal assistance or to request your free consultation.
