Visalia Workplace Discrimination Attorney

What is Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination refers to the unfair treatment or unfavorable actions taken against an employee or job applicant based on certain protected characteristics. It occurs when an individual is treated differently or subjected to adverse employment actions such as:

• Hiring
• Firing
• Promotion
• compensation

Or terms and conditions of employment based on factors such as:

• race or ethnicity
• Gender
• Age
• Religion
• Disability
• National origin
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity
• Pregnancy

Workplace discrimination can manifest in various forms, including overt acts, biased policies, systemic practices, or even subtle actions that create a hostile work environment. It is important to note that different jurisdictions may have specific protected characteristics and laws addressing workplace discrimination.

In Visalia, laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) provide protection against workplace discrimination.

Types of Workplace Discrimination

Workplace discrimination occurs more often than we may think, and sometimes it may even occur without our knowledge. Several types of discrimination can take place in the workplace. Here are some common types:

Race Discrimination

Racial harassment or discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfairly or subjected to adverse actions based on their race, skin color, or ethnic background. It can involve differential treatment in hiring, promotions, assignments, or workplace policies that disproportionately affect certain racial or ethnic groups.

Gender Discrimination

Gender discrimination involves treating individuals differently or unfavorably based on their gender. It can include actions such as pay inequity, denial of promotions or opportunities, sexual harassment, or creating a hostile work environment based on gender stereotypes.

Age Discrimination

Age discrimination occurs when individuals are treated less favorably because of their age, typically targeting older employees. Victims of age discrimination may experience actions such as biased hiring practices, denying training or advancement opportunities, or implementing company policies that disproportionately affect older workers.

Religious Discrimination

Disability discrimination involves treating individuals with disabilities unfairly or failing to provide reasonable accommodations for their disabilities. This can include actions like denying employment opportunities, harassment, unequal pay, or inaccessible work environments.

National Origin Discrimination

National origin discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfavorably due to their country of origin, accent, or association with a particular nationality or ethnic group.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Discrimination

Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity involves treating individuals differently or unfavorably due to their sexual orientation (such as being gay, lesbian, or bisexual) or gender identity (such as being transgender or non-binary). This can include harassment, unequal treatment, denial of benefits, or exclusion from certain opportunities.

Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when pregnant employees or those with pregnancy-related health conditions are treated unfavorably in employment matters. It can involve actions, such as refusal to hire, demotion, denial of benefits, or hostile work environments based on pregnancy or related medical conditions.

Visalia Labor Industry

The labor industry in Visalia, California, is diverse and encompasses various sectors. Here are some key industries and sectors that contribute to the local labor market in Visalia:

• Agriculture – Visalia is situated in the heart of California’s Central Valley, known for its rich agricultural production. The region is a hub for farming activities, including crops, such as citrus fruits, nuts, vegetables, and livestock.
• Manufacturing – Visalia has a thriving manufacturing sector that includes industries, such as food processing, packaging, wood products, machinery, and plastics.
• Healthcare and medical services – The healthcare industry is a major employer in Visalia. The city has numerous hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and healthcare facilities that offer a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services.
• Retail and services – The retail sector in Visalia is vibrant, with shopping centers, malls, and local businesses catering to the community’s needs. Retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities in customer service, sales, hospitality, and other related fields.
• Education – Visalia has a robust educational system that includes public schools, private schools, and higher education institutions. The Visalia Unified School District is one of the largest employers in the city. Additionally, the College of the Sequoias, a community college, offers educational programs and contributes to the local labor market.
• Government and public services – Local, state, and federal government agencies provide employment opportunities in areas, such as public administration, law enforcement, firefighting, public works, and more. The city of Visalia and Tulare County governments are among the significant employers in the public sector.

The labor industry in Visalia, like in any other city, plays a vital role in the local economy. Employment rights are of significant importance for both employees and employers. By upholding employment rights, the labor industry in Visalia can foster a healthy and productive workforce

Visalia Laws Prohibiting Workplace Discrimination

Visalia, California, is subject to the employment laws of the state of California, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). FEHA prohibits workplace discrimination and harassment based on various protected characteristics.

Under FEHA, employers in Visalia are required to provide equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and maintain a workplace free from harassment and discrimination.

Employees who experience discrimination have the right to file a complaint with the DFEH or pursue legal action.

Seeking Remedies For Workplace Discrimination

Victims of workplace discrimination may be able to seek remedies or claim compensation for the harm they experienced. Here are some potential avenues for seeking compensation or remedies:

• Legal claims – Victims of workplace discrimination can file a legal claim against their employer or the responsible parties. This typically involves filing a complaint with a government agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in the United States or the relevant state-level agency.
• Monetary compensation – Successful legal claims may result in monetary compensation for the victim. This can include back pay, which compensates for lost wages and benefits, as well as front pay to account for future earnings that may have been impacted by the discrimination. Additionally, victims may be eligible for compensatory damages to address emotional distress, pain, and suffering caused by the discrimination.
• Remedies and injunctive relief – In addition to financial compensation, victims of workplace discrimination may seek remedies aimed at rectifying the harm caused. This can include reinstatement to their previous position or promotion if the discrimination led to adverse employment actions. Employers may also be required to implement policies or provide training to prevent future harassment or discrimination.

Consulting with a Visalia workplace discrimination attorney who specializes in workplace discrimination will provide you with personalized guidance on the potential compensation and remedies available in your particular case.

Hire an Award-Winning Visalia Workplace Discrimination Attorney!

Take action against workplace discrimination! If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination, you may be eligible to file a compensation claim.

At the Labor Law Advocates, our team of experienced lawyers will guide you through the process of filing a claim, protecting your legal rights, and seeking justice.

Don’t let discrimination go unchallenged. Stand up for your rights and create a fair workplace. Contact us at (559) 344-5508 for a free initial consultation!