San Francisco Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer

San Francisco Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorney

It is an unfortunate reality that sexual orientation discrimination continues to be a pervasive problem in San Francisco. The acts of discrimination can be open or more subtle. Either way, discrimination leaves workers feeling humiliated and undervalued. A San Francisco sexual orientation discrimination lawyer can take decisive action to hold the discriminatory party or parties accountable for their misconduct while seeking compensation for their client.

Why Choose Clark Employment Law, APC?

Experiencing sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace can leave you feeling vulnerable and degraded. It can be difficult to know which law firm you can turn to for support and guidance. At Clark Employment Law, APC, we firmly believe that all San Francisco workers, regardless of their sexual orientation, deserve the right to work without fear of discrimination.

State and federal laws are clear on the matter, but enforcing your rights requires legal representation from an attorney who has the resolve to see complex employment laws through. Our team has the knowledge and experience you can count on. We can review your case, put your employer on notice about your ordeal, and begin drafting and filing formal complaints that seek to hold the at-fault party accountable and provide you with much-needed forms of relief.

Common Examples of Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Sexual orientation discrimination can occur during the hiring process or after an employee is hired. Employers who refuse to hire someone due to the worker’s sexual orientation violate important state and federal laws and then ban hiring practices based on someone’s sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation.

Once employment begins, workers may experience discrimination. This can include reduced hours, sudden negative performance reviews, exclusion from company events, and other forms of unequal treatment. These discriminatory acts can leave targeted workers feeling excluded and isolated. In more extreme situations, a worker may be unlawfully terminated due to their sexual orientation.

What Recourse Do I Have Following Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

Employers have multiple resources they can take after being targeted for their sexual orientation. Early on, workers should document the incidents and report them to human resources. It can also help to review workplace policies to better understand how your company says they handle these situations and how to file internal complaints.

If bringing the matter to the attention of a supervisor or human resources representative fails to end workplace discrimination, workers have the right to file a formal complaint with either the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Having legal representation can help facilitate that process and prevent further acts of discrimination or retaliation while the complaint process goes through.

Why Legal Representation Is Critical

Sexual orientation discrimination cases are often complex and require communicating with state or federal employment protection groups. Gathering clear evidence is a crucial first step on your path to securing justice and compensation. An attorney who is well-versed in employment law can provide important benefits during this challenging time.

An attorney in San Francisco ensures that their client understands their rights. They can gather the necessary documentation and take appropriate legal steps. Employers often have legal teams protecting their interests, which makes it important for employees to have experienced legal guidance. An attorney can help file complaints, negotiate settlements, and escalate claims when needed.

Sexual Orientation Discrimination FAQs

Q: Who Should You Contact If You Experience Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

A: Employees facing sexual orientation discrimination can report the issue to human resources or management if their workplace has anti-discrimination policies in place. If the employer fails to take corrective action, a complaint can be filed with the CRD or the EEOC. Seeking legal guidance can also help in understanding options and protecting workplace rights.

Q: Can a Toxic Environment Contribute to Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

A: A toxic work environment can contribute to direct or indirect acts of sexual orientation discrimination. Toxic work environments often permit inappropriate comments to be made within earshot of LGBTQ workers. This can create an oppressive work environment that stifles productivity and leaves workers feeling degraded and unappreciated. Business owners can be held financially liable for allowing workplace misconduct to continue unaddressed.

Q: Is Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation Legal?

A: Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal under both California and federal law. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibit employers from making employment decisions based on sexual orientation. This includes hiring, firing, promotions, wages, and workplace treatment. Employees who experience discrimination have legal options to pursue accountability.

Q: Is Sexual Orientation Considered a Protected Class in California?

A: Sexual orientation is a protected class under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Employers cannot discriminate against employees or job applicants based on their sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation. This includes protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer individuals. Workplace policies that violate these protections can be challenged through legal action.

Q: Does the EEOC Provide Protections for Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

A: The EEOC enforces federal protections against sexual orientation discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. This means that employers cannot harass, terminate, or retaliate against employees based on their sexual orientation. If discrimination occurs, the EEOC allows employees to file complaints and may investigate claims of workplace violations.

San Francisco Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer

Sexual orientation discrimination is wholly unacceptable in today’s work environments. The acts are also unlawful. If you have been subjected to workplace discrimination, you have the right to pursue legal remedies with the help of an employment lawyer who understands the applicable state and federal laws that may have been violated.

Workers in San Francisco know they can rely on the legal services of Clark Employment Law, APC, following an incident or multiple incidents of sexual orientation discrimination. Our team can protect your rights and put your employer on notice that further acts of discrimination or harassment will not be tolerated. Contact our office today to schedule your no-cost initial consultation and take the first step toward the justice and compensation you are owed.