Columbia, MD Age Discrimination Lawyers

Legal Options for Employees Facing Age Discrimination in Columbia, MD

In the United States, employees are protected against discrimination based on certain factors, including age. Employees who face discrimination because of their age may be passed over for promotions, demoted, or even terminated unfairly. If you believe you have been a victim of age discrimination, Freedman Law, LLC can advise you of your options and help you seek justice. We can also help employers determine what steps they can take in response to age discrimination claims or related concerns.

What Is Age Discrimination?

There are many situations in which an employee or job applicant may be treated unfairly or differently because of their age. Age discrimination may involve illegal practices such as:

• Hiring Discrimination: An employer may refuse to hire an older job applicant, favoring younger candidates even if the older applicant is more qualified. This can happen during the application process, when conducting interviews, or when making offers of employment with compensation that is based on a prospective employee's qualifications and experience.
• Promotion Denial: An older employee might be passed over for a promotion in favor of a younger, less experienced colleague. This type of discrimination often stems from stereotypes that older workers are less capable of handling new responsibilities or adapting to changes in the workplace.
• Pay Disparity: An older employee might be paid less than younger colleagues for doing the same job, despite having more experience and qualifications. In these situations, employees may take steps to address the losses they have experienced because they are not being paid what they are worth.
• Termination or Forced Retirement: Some employers may target older employees for termination or force them into early retirement as a way to reduce payroll costs. In these situations, employees may take steps to address wrongful termination and recover compensation for financial losses or other ways they have been affected.
• Hostile Work Environment: Age discrimination may involve words or actions that cause older employees to feel uncomfortable or unsafe in the workplace. Employees or supervisors may make derogatory comments or jokes about a person's age or health, or they may engage in other forms of harassment, such as excluding an older person from work-related social functions. A hostile work environment can make it difficult for an employee to perform their job effectively, and these issues can also lead to emotional distress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Age Discrimination

What Should I Do if I Believe I Have Been Discriminated Against Because of My Age?

If you suspect age discrimination, it is important to document the incidents that you believe are discriminatory. Keep records of any conversations, emails, or other communications that may support your claim. You can speak to an employment law attorney at Freedman Law, LLC to determine your legal options, which may include filing a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or taking legal action against your employer or former employer.

How Long Do I Have to File a Complaint?

Under federal law, you generally have 180 days from the date of the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the EEOC. However, this deadline is extended to 300 days for people in locations where state agencies enforce laws against age discrimination, including Maryland and Virginia. Different deadlines may apply for claims filed with state agencies. In general, both Maryland and Virginia require complaints to be filed within 300 days of the day that discrimination occurred.

Can I Be Terminated or Demoted After Filing a Discrimination Complaint?

Your employer cannot legally retaliate against you for filing a discrimination complaint. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, or other actions that may affect your employment, your income, or your ability to carry out job-related duties. If you believe you are being retaliated against, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for Age Discrimination?

If your age discrimination claim is successful, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. This can include back pay, reinstatement to your previous position, promotion, and compensation for emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the employer for particularly egregious conduct.

How Freedman Law, LLC Can Help Employees Facing Age Discrimination

If you have experienced age discrimination in the workplace, Freedman Law, LLC is here to help you understand your rights and make sure you take the correct steps in response. Our experienced employment law attorneys can work with you to file claims with the EEOC or state agencies. We can help obtain evidence of discrimination and ensure that you take the proper legal action to address discrimination by your employer. We understand the emotional and financial toll that age discrimination can take, and we are committed to helping you achieve a fair and just resolution to your case that may include compensation for your financial losses, the restoration to a position, and ensuring that you receive the proper pay and benefits.

How Freedman Law, LLC Can Assist Employers in Age Discrimination Claims

Freedman Law, LLC also provides legal services for employers in cases involving age discrimination complaints. These allegations can have significant legal and financial consequences for businesses, making it essential to address these issues promptly and effectively. We can help employers understand their obligations under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, and we can provide guidance on how to prevent age discrimination in the workplace. We can assist with negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings, working to resolve disputes while protecting a company's reputation and financial interests.

Contact Our Columbia, Maryland Age Discrimination Attorneys

The experienced employment discrimination lawyers at Freedman Law, LLC can help determine the best ways to handle issues related to age discrimination. We are dedicated to protecting our clients' rights and interests in these cases. Whether you need assistance with filing a complaint, defending against allegations of discrimination, or resolving legal disputes with an employer or employee, we have the knowledge and experience to help you achieve a positive outcome to your case. Contact us and set up a consultation by calling 410-290-6230.