Discrimination Attorneys San Francisco
Discrimination Attorneys San Francisco
California residents and workers are protected by some of the nation’s most comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, designed to prevent illegal discrimination related to housing or employment. There are also numerous federal laws that protect employees from discrimination, and while this is generally a good thing for workers, it can sometimes make it difficult to know how to proceed if an employee believes they’ve been subjected to discrimination. Discussing the details of your situation with discrimination attorneys in San Francisco can help you understand your options and how to proceed.
How is Discrimination Defined?
Discrimination involves treating a person or group unfavorably based on their inclusion in a particular class. Discrimination occurs in many ways, but the most common complaints are those involving employment and housing. The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) prohibits discrimination by employers on the basis of these characteristics:
- Race or color
- National origin or ancestry
- Religion
- Age
- Disability, mental and physical
- Sex or gender (this includes pregnancy, breastfeeding or related medical conditions)
- Sexual orientation
- Medical conditions
- Genetic information
- Marital status
- Veteran or military status
Employment Discrimination
It is illegal to discriminate against an employee or job applicant based on any of the protected statuses listed above. This applies to a wide range of employment actions, from how available positions are advertised to ensuring fair working conditions on the job.
The fear of retaliation or lost wages can prevent some employees from reporting discrimination or taking action against their employer. At Olivier & Schreiber P.C., we believe all employees are entitled to safe, respectful working conditions and we are honored to help defend workers whose rights are being violated.
Housing Discrimination
California law is designed to prevent discrimination in all aspects of the housing market and applies to landlords, real estate agents, home sellers, builders, mortgage brokers, and others. It can also include the zoning or land-use decisions made by local units of government. Common violations include a refusal to rent, sell, lease, or buy from an individual, or a refusal to engage in negotiations for these activities, based on the individual’s protected status.
How a San Francisco Discrimination Attorney Can Help
Unfortunately, there are actions related to employment and housing which most people would agree are unfair and unethical, but do not rise to the level of illegal discrimination. Furthermore, it can be difficult to prove that an employer or landlord took unfavorable action based on discrimination, and not other factors like job performance. These challenges should not discourage anyone from filing a claim of discrimination, rather, it highlights the importance of working with a skilled attorney to make sure that your claim is handled properly and that you present sufficient evidence to prove your case.
California residents have the right to fair treatment and equal opportunities regarding where they live and work. The attorneys at Olivier & Schreiber P.C. have helped dozens of California families obtain justice, and we want to help you too. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, contact our dedicated discrimination attorneys in San Francisco today to discuss your case.
