California Workplace Discrimination Attorneys
Workplace discrimination is the unfair treatment of an employee or job applicant based on a protected characteristic. When it arises in the workplace, everyone involved faces significant legal and personal challenges. At Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC, our employment discrimination lawyers have stood beside employees and employers across California for over 40 years. We take a genuine interest in every client and bring a dedicated team to every case.
Protected Categories Under California Workplace Discrimination Law
California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects a broad set of characteristics in the workplace. Employees and HR professionals alike should know what the law covers. Protected categories under California law include:
- Race and national origin: Bias based on race, ethnicity or country of origin
- Gender and sex: Covers gender identity, expression and pregnancy
- Age: Protects workers 40 and older
- Disability: Physical or mental conditions requiring accommodation
- Sexual orientation: Bias based on how a person identifies
- Religion: Discrimination based on faith or religious practice
Other protected categories under California law include marital status, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status and political activities or affiliations.
California’s FEHA provides broader protections than federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) standards. FEHA applies to employers with as few as five employees, well below the federal minimum of 15. California workers generally have stronger legal standing and more options for relief.
Your Rights As An Employee Under California Discrimination Law
California gives you the right to work free from discrimination. For employment claims, you must first file with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) to obtain a right-to-sue notice before going to court. Strict deadlines apply, so acting quickly matters.
When you do this, your employer cannot legally retaliate against you for reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation. Retaliation may include termination, demotion or any adverse action tied to your complaint.
California also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities and religious needs. When an employer fails to meet that obligation, it may strengthen your discrimination claim and open the door to remedies such as back pay, emotional distress damages and attorney fees.
Employer Responsibilities For Workplace Discrimination Prevention In California
California law requires employers to actively prevent workplace discrimination through clear antidiscrimination policies, prevention training (for applicable employers) and prompt complaint responses. A strong compliance program protects your business and workforce.
When a discrimination claim arises, a documented and measured response is essential. Our employment law attorneys help employers investigate, organize records and build an effective legal defense. Early action and solid documentation can shape any case outcome.
Your Workplace Discrimination Case Deserves A Dedicated Legal Team
You should not face a workplace discrimination matter without experienced legal support. Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC, has built a reputation for quality service and leadership across California’s diverse communities. Call our office at 213-723-1276 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation.