Columbia Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorneys

Protecting LGBTQ+ Employee Rights Against Discrimination in Columbia, MD

Employment discrimination is an ongoing concern in many workplaces, and it often affects LGBTQ+ employees who deserve the same respect and opportunities as their colleagues. All employees should be able to work in environments that are free from bias, prejudice, and unfair or unequal treatment. Employees who have experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation can work with an employment law attorney at Freedman Law, LLC to determine the best ways to proceed. Our experienced lawyers can also provide assistance to employers, and we are committed to advocating for justice and equality in the workplace.

What Is Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

There are a variety of ways that employees may be treated unfairly or differently because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation. Some forms of discrimination may be overt, while others may be more subtle. LGBTQ+ employees may need to address issues such as:

• Hiring and Promotion Discrimination: Employers may treat both prospective and current employees unfairly based on their sexual orientation. For example, an employer may refuse to hire or promote someone simply because they are gay, lesbian, or bisexual, or they may not provide existing employees with deserved opportunities due to bias against their sexual orientation. This discrimination can be overt, such as directly stating a preference for heterosexual employees, or more covert, such as consistently favoring heterosexual candidates over equally qualified LGBTQ+ candidates.
• Unequal Pay and Benefits: LGBTQ+ employees may be treated unfairly based on their sexual orientation in terms of the wages they are paid or the benefits that are available to them. In some cases, an employer may pay an LGBTQ+ employee less than their heterosexual counterparts for the same work, or certain benefits may be denied, such as health insurance coverage for a same-sex partner. This form of discrimination can harm the employee financially, and it can also send a message that their work and contributions are less valued.
• Harassment: LGBTQ+ employees may experience hostile treatment in the workplace, such as derogatory comments, inappropriate jokes, or the use of slurs during conversations. Harassment can also take the form of exclusion from work-related activities such as meetings or social events. If harassment has led to a hostile work environment in which an employee feels unsafe or unwelcome because of their sexual orientation, they may take steps to address these issues. Employers are legally obligated to address and prevent harassment in the workplace, and they can be held liable if they fail to take appropriate action.
• Retaliation: Employees who speak out against discrimination or file complaints may face retaliation from their employer, including demotion, wrongful termination, or other penalties that may negatively impact the employee's career. Retaliation is illegal, and employees who experience it have the right to seek legal recourse. It is crucial for employees to document any retaliatory actions and work with an attorney to protect their rights.

Working With Employees Address Discrimination

If you believe that you have been discriminated against based on your sexual orientation, it is essential to take immediate steps to protect your rights. At Freedman Law, LLC, we are dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ employees fight against discrimination, and we work to ensure that they can achieve justice for this unfair treatment. We will work closely with you to gather evidence, document incidents of discrimination, and file the necessary complaints with the appropriate agencies. If your case proceeds to litigation, our attorneys will represent your interests in court, advocating for your rights and working to achieve a favorable outcome. We understand the emotional toll that discrimination can take, and we are committed to standing by your side throughout the legal process.

Representing Employers Accused of Discrimination

Freedman Law, LLC also provides legal services for employers who need to respond to discrimination claims. Accusations of discrimination can have serious legal and financial implications for businesses, and it is essential to address these issues promptly and effectively. Our attorneys can assist employers in investigating discrimination claims, ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination laws, and defending against lawsuits.

Contact Our Columbia, Maryland Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyers

At Freedman Law, LLC, our experienced employment law attorneys can help protect the rights of employees who have experienced discrimination, and we are ready to fight to ensure that justice is served. For both employees who have faced discrimination and employers who need to resolve disputes related to discrimination claims, we have the knowledge and experience needed to handle these cases correctly. To arrange a consultation, contact our firm at 410-290-6230. We believe that everyone deserves to work in a safe and inclusive environment, and we are dedicated to making that a reality.