What are the signs of marital status discrimination?
Marital status discrimination involves poor, unequal or other improper treatment at work, or being vulnerable to prejudice, because of a person’s marital status — whether single, engaged, married, separated, divorced, or widowed.
Discrimination based on marital status can have severe effects on the livelihoods of employed individuals, couples and families in California. This sort of discrimination can take various forms, including unequal or unfair duties, shifts and promotions, and also wrongful and illegal termination. Addressing marital status discrimination is critical in order to prevent and decrease its substantial detrimental adverse effect on individuals and their families, which unfortunately can include anxiety and financial stress. Federal law under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 forbids workplace discrimination based on factors including race, color, religion, sex or national origin, and the U.S. Supreme Court has expanded workplace discrimination to include gender identity, transgender status and sexual orientation, but the Civil Rights Act does not consider that marital status is a protected class. And, although the federal Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 prohibits marital status discrimination, it applies only to federal government employees. On the other hand, California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”) bans marital status discrimination in both hiring and employment, by both public and private employers.
If you desire to continue enjoying the rights you have in California, you should be aware that UELG’s workplace discrimination attorneys are ready to defend your legal liberties and take all available steps to safeguard your rights.
Here are the three major signs that marital status is resulting in discrimination at work:
- Unequal Treatment: Employees are subjected to inconsistent treatment compared to their colleagues. This could involve being unfairly passed over for promotions or raises. It may also include different sets of rules or expectations for employees based on their marital status.
- Unwarranted Criticism: Discrimination based on marital status can involve receiving unwarranted criticism or negative feedback solely due to one’s marital situation. This can hinder professional growth and impact an individual’s self-esteem.
- Isolation and harassment: Employees might find themselves isolated or experiencing harassment linked to their marital status. This could involve derogatory comments by coworkers or other actions that create a hostile work environment.
A quick overview of California legislation aimed to reduce and prevent marital status discrimination in California:
California has made major strides to combat marital status discrimination. One of the most critical and comprehensive legislation to this end is the Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”). This set of laws prohibits marital status discrimination in the workplace. Under the FEHA, employers are prohibited, based on your marital status, from refusing to hire you, taking action to prevent workplace advancement, firing or demoting you, laying you off, or providing unequal treatment as to the terms, conditions or benefits of your employment. Under the FEHA, employers must treat all employees fairly, regardless of marital status. The FEHA aims to reduce marital status discrimination and promote fairness, equity, and possibilities for all employees. Under the FEHA, if you believe you have been discriminated against due to your marital status, typically you must first file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (“CRD”) within three years of the last discriminatory act. After the CRD investigates and attempts to resolve the matter, if unsuccessful or if the CRD declines to pursue your case, a marital status discrimination case can then be filed in California state court.
UELG’s experienced and knowledgeable workplace discrimination lawyers can help you combat marital status discrimination:
If you believe you are a victim of marital status discrimination at your workplace, it is essential to seek professional legal assistance. Contact UELG to speak with our experienced workplace discrimination lawyers, who can help you assess your situation, provide guidance as you file a claim with the CRD, and if warranted, bring and litigate your case in California courts. Our knowledge, experience and skill in California employment law, and track record of defending the rights of persons subjected to discrimination, will be beneficial and crucial to help you to compile proof of the marital status discrimination you are experiencing, file a claim, and negotiate the challenging legal system.
Conclusion
When companies discriminate against employees based on their marital status, it has a huge impact on and affects the lives of many individuals, couples and families. Important first steps to resolve this devastating issue include being aware of the warning indications of discrimination and the pertinent laws, and getting legal counsel. Protecting your rights and working hard to accomplish fair treatment at work are the top priorities of UELG workplace discrimination attorneys. Do not accept marital status discrimination; instead, take action right away and contribute to the development of a welcoming and equitable workplace for all.
visit our website at United Employees Law Group, or reach out to us at (888) 455-7434.