Workplace Discrimination

Federal and state laws protect an employee’s right to work free from discrimination because of the employee’s race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, and service in the armed forces. Certain state laws, New Jersey for example, are more expansive and also prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and familial status. Employers who make job related decisions based on any of these “protected class features,” whether in hiring, benefits, advancement, or discipline including discharge, violate the law.

Not all discrimination is illegal. For example, smoking at work is not a protected right. Employers are free to choose not to hire persons who smoke and to prohibit smoking on the workplace premises. Obesity is another example of an unprotected feature. Unless obesity is caused by or accompanied by a serious medical condition, employers are not prohibited from discriminating against someone who is simply overweight.

If you feel you have been a victim of discrimination, please contact us or give us a call at (215) 493-8287 to schedule a free consultation. Mr. Scott Fegley will personally discuss your situation with you by telephone or email and will tell you whether the problems you may be experiencing at work are, in fact, illegal discrimination which may give you the right to sue your employer.