San Diego, CA Discrimination Lawyer

Workplace discrimination can turn a job that should be fulfilling and dignifying into a source of stress, humiliation and frustration. It happens when an employee is treated unfairly or differently because of characteristics like race, gender, age, or disability, among other protected classes. 

This unfair treatment can affect everything from hiring decisions to promotions and even day-to-day interactions. If you’re facing such issues, it’s important to understand that you have rights and there are ways to address the situation.

Discrimination in the workplace can have serious impacts, including emotional distress, lost job opportunities, and financial hardship. It’s not just about how you’re treated but also about how these experiences affect your overall well-being. Our work is such an important part of our lives, our families’ lives, and our overall survival in an ever-increasingly expensive world. To be bullied or treated illegally, can cause great humiliation, anxiety, stress, and distress that can even manifest in physical ways. 

Fortunately, there are legal protections in place designed to help you. Understanding these protections can empower you to take action and seek the justice you deserve.

At Jassim Law, we’re here to support you through the process of addressing workplace discrimination. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and upholding your rights. If you believe you’ve been a victim of workplace discrimination, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We can guide you every step of the way, from filing a complaint to seeking the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Workplace Discrimination in California

Workplace discrimination refers to unfair or biased treatment of employees based on specific protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or national origin. California has some of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the United States, designed to ensure that all employees are treated fairly and with respect in the workplace. However, merely being treated “unfairly” is seldom enough for a legal case. 

What Constitutes Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly or adversely affected in their employment because of their protected characteristic. This can manifest in various ways, including:

• Hiring and Firing: Unfairly excluding or terminating employees based on discriminatory reasons rather than their qualifications or performance.
• Promotion and Pay: Denying promotions or equal pay based on characteristics like gender or ethnicity.
• Harassment: Subjecting employees to a hostile work environment through derogatory comments, unwanted advances, or other forms of harassment based on their protected characteristics.
• Retaliation: Taking adverse action against an employee complaining about discrimination or participating in an investigation.

Under both federal laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, and California state laws, including the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employees are protected against discrimination. These laws require employers to provide equal opportunities and take proactive steps to prevent and address discrimination. Employers are also required to have policies and training programs in place to combat workplace discrimination.

How to Report Discrimination in California

Reporting discrimination is a critical step in addressing unfair treatment and seeking justice. If you’ve experienced discrimination at work, in housing, or other areas, here’s how to report it:

• Document the Discrimination: Before reporting, gather all relevant evidence. This includes detailed notes of incidents, dates, emails, witness statements, and other supporting documents illustrating the discriminatory behavior. Always communicate with your employers and supervisors in writing, this means by email or other written form of communication so that there is evidence.
• Report Internally: Start by reporting the issue internally. If it’s workplace discrimination, follow your employer’s grievance procedures. This could involve speaking to your HR department or a designated complaint officer. Document your complaint and any responses you receive.
• File a Complaint with the DFEH: For broader issues, file a formal complaint with the Civil Rights Department (CRD). You can submit your complaint online, by mail, or by phone. The CRD investigates discrimination claims in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
• Consult with an Attorney: Consider seeking legal advice from an employment lawyer or civil rights attorney. They can guide the legal process, represent you in negotiations, and help you understand your rights.
• Follow up: Track your complaint’s status and communicate with the DFEH or your attorney for updates and further steps.

Reporting discrimination is essential for holding those responsible accountable and upholding your rights.

How Attorneys Can Help With Your Discrimination Case

Facing discrimination can be a distressing and isolating experience. At Jassim Law, our dedicated attorneys are committed to guiding you through the complexities of your discrimination case with expertise and compassion. 

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

Our attorneys start by thoroughly evaluating the details of your case. We listen to your account, review all relevant documents, and assess the strength of your claim. This detailed evaluation is crucial for developing a strategic approach tailored to your unique situation.

Evidence Collection and Preservation

Gathering and preserving evidence is vital for building a robust case. We help collect critical evidence such as emails, witness statements, performance reviews, and any documentation related to discriminatory incidents. This evidence is essential for proving your case and holding the responsible parties accountable.

Filing and Managing Complaints

Whether it’s filing a complaint with the CRD or initiating legal action, our attorneys manage the entire process. We ensure that all paperwork is correctly filed and deadlines are met so you can focus on your recovery.

Legal Representation and Advocacy

We provide aggressive representation in negotiations and court proceedings. Our attorneys advocate for your rights and interests to secure the compensation and justice you deserve. We handle interactions with all parties involved, including employers, insurance companies, and legal representatives.

Emotional and Practical Support

Beyond legal expertise, we offer emotional support throughout the process. Discrimination cases can be challenging, and we are here to answer your questions, keep you updated on your case’s progress, and provide reassurance.

Ensuring Fair Treatment

Our goal is to ensure you are treated fairly and receive appropriate compensation for any harm suffered. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you confidently move forward.

Seek Justice With Jassim Law

Addressing workplace discrimination can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Jassim Law, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated team understands the emotional and practical challenges of discrimination cases and offers compassionate guidance to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. We handle everything from filing complaints to securing the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your well-being.

With a proven track record in personal injury and employment law, Attorney Pajman Jassim, recognized as a SuperLawyer from 2017 to 2024, brings expertise and dedication to every case. We are proud to help you uphold your rights and seek justice. Contact Jassim Law at (619) 630-2680 or through our contact form.