Workplace discrimination can significantly impact your career, sense of security, and personal well-being. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work, it is crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to address this serious issue.
In Denver, as in the rest of Colorado, employees are protected under both federal and state anti-discrimination laws. This guide, provided by Baker Law Group, PLLC, outlines what you need to know about handling workplace discrimination claims in Denver.
Understanding Workplace Discrimination in Denver, Colorado
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or a job applicant unfavorably because of their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. Discrimination can also occur when a policy applies to everyone but negatively affects people in a protected class, unless the policy is job-related and necessary to the operation of the business.
Federal and State Laws Protecting You
At the federal level, the primary legislation that addresses workplace discrimination is the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. Colorado state law also provides additional protections under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA), which covers employers with one or more employees, unlike Title VII which applies only to employers with 15 or more employees. Understanding how CADA interacts with federal law in your specific situation is something a Colorado employment lawyer can help clarify — particularly when the size of your employer determines which protections apply to you.
Both sets of laws prohibit discrimination in any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, benefits, and any other term or condition of employment.
Identifying Discrimination at Work
Recognizing discrimination can be challenging. It might be overt, such as a refusal to hire someone based on their race, or more subtle, like systemic favoritism in promotions or pay raises towards a certain group. Other examples include:
- Harassment by managers, co-workers, or others in the workplace, such as offensive or derogatory remarks about a person’s protected characteristics.
- Retaliation because an employee complained about job discrimination, or assisted with a job discrimination investigation or lawsuit.
Steps to Take if You Face Discrimination
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of discriminatory acts, including dates, times, places, and names involved, as well as details of conversations or incidents.
- Report the Discrimination: Typically, you should start by reporting the discrimination internally through your employer’s HR department. This allows your employer the opportunity to address the issue.
- File a Discrimination Claim: If your employer does not resolve the issue, you may need to file a formal complaint. In Colorado, you can file a discrimination claim either with the state administrative agency, the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD), or the federal administrative agency, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The CCRD and EEOC have a work-sharing agreement, so filing a claim with one agency will automatically file it with the other without having to file more than one complaint.
- Consult with an Employment Attorney: Navigating the complexities of discrimination claims can be difficult. An experienced Denver employment lawyer can offer guidance, help you understand your rights, and represent your interests throughout the process.
Call a Denver Employment Attorney
Facing discrimination in the workplace can be daunting and emotionally taxing. However, you do not have to deal with it alone. Baker Law Group, PLLC is dedicated to helping Denver employees who have been subjected to unfair and illegal treatment at work. Our team understands the profound impact that such experiences can have on your professional and personal life. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to ensure your rights are protected.
Our experienced attorneys can assist you in understanding the nuances of your case, preparing necessary documentation, and representing you in negotiations or court proceedings if necessary. Contact Baker Law Group, PLLC today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can assist you in achieving justice and a fair resolution to your workplace discrimination claim.
Why Choose Baker Law Group, PLLC?
- Experienced Representation: Our attorneys have a thorough understanding of both federal and state discrimination laws.
- Personalized Attention: Each client’s case is unique. We listen to your story, provide tailored advice, and develop a strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
- Commitment to Clients: We are committed to supporting our clients throughout their legal journey and advocating for their rights against workplace discrimination.
If you’ve experienced discrimination at work, it’s important to act swiftly to protect your rights. Remember, discriminatory practices are not only unfair—they are illegal. Let Baker Law Group, PLLC help you navigate your legal options and work towards a resolution that upholds your dignity and rights at work. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in this challenging time.
