Princeton Employment Law Attorney

Workplace Rights Lawyers Advocating for New Jersey Employees

Employees have the right to be considered on the merits of their work, rather than their membership in certain categories, such as race, religion, gender (sex), nationality, pregnancy, criminal history, and age, as well as being free of sexual harassment in the workplace. Unfortunately, not all employers follow the laws meant to protect employees from harassment or discrimination. If you feel that you have been harassed or discriminated against in the workplace, the Princeton employment attorneys at Phillips & Associates, PLLC may be able to file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Your rights in the workplace are protected under federal and state laws for a reason. They exist not just as legal constructs but as commitments to fair employment practices, fostering environments where individuality is protected and respected. This ensures diversity and inclusivity, elements that are vital for any thriving organization. If you suspect violations, it is crucial to seek professional guidance promptly to safeguard your rights and potential recovery.

For trusted legal guidance, reach out to a knowledgeable Princeton employment law lawyer at Phillips & Associates, PLLC. Call (866) 475-4267 or contact us immediately to schedule your consultation.

Understanding New Jersey's Anti-Discrimination Landscape

Located at the heart of New Jersey's legal framework for employment is the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), which extends robust protection to employees in Princeton and beyond. The NJLAD is one of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination statutes in the United States, offering broad protections that go beyond federal laws in many respects. Not only does it cover discrimination based on a wide variety of personal characteristics, but it also protects against discriminatory harassment and hostile work environments.

In New Jersey, employers cannot implement practices that discriminate directly or hurt protected groups. The NJLAD mandates equality in hiring, firing, promotions, and wages, and seeks to eliminate both overt discrimination and subtle, systemic workplace inequities. Employers are thus compelled to regularly evaluate their practices and ensure they meet NJLAD standards, which means employees in Princeton have a powerful tool for redress and accountability.

Federal & State Employment Laws May Provide Remedies

There are many federal and state anti-discrimination laws that employers should follow. Among the main federal laws that prohibit discrimination are Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). The federal Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may also provide for job-protected leave for 12 weeks for eligible employees. Generally, you may not be subjected to retaliation or harassment for complaining about workplace discrimination because you took medical leave as a reasonable accommodation for a disability or pregnancy or for taking FMLA leave.

Understanding these laws is imperative for both employees and employers to ensure mutual respect and adherence to legal standards. Title VII addresses discrimination on numerous bases such as race, color, or national origin, while the ADA mandates reasonable accommodations for eligible individuals with disabilities. Awareness of these laws can empower employees to recognize infractions and take appropriate legal actions.

The primary state law that prohibits workplace discrimination is the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD). This law prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, gender (sex), nationality, pregnancy, criminal history, age, as well as marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sexual harassment. Discrimination may include differential treatment, as well as comments or conduct that reflect an animus or bias towards your protected class.

Discrimination Based On Employment Policies

More importantly, employment practices and policies that may seem neutral may still be unlawful if they harm a protected group of people. For example, a hiring requirement that job applicants be of a certain height might disproportionately affect women and certain minorities. If a disparate impact is shown, the employer will need to show that the policy or practice meets an important and legitimate business need that would not be addressed through an alternative, nondiscriminatory practice or policy. Our employment lawyers can help Princeton employees bring a disparate impact claim if needed.

Addressing discrimination based on employment policies requires thorough investigations and commitment to equitable solutions. Data analysis and expert legal assessment can unearth hidden biases within practices that otherwise seem unobjectionable. Employers need to be particularly vigilant, as even inadvertent discriminatory policies can significantly affect workplace dynamics and legal responsibilities.

The damages that you may recover depend on which law you are using as the basis of your claim. Federal laws enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) have tiered damages caps based on the size of the employer. There are no analogous caps under the New Jersey anti-discrimination law.

Even if you turn out to be wrong about the discrimination, you have the right to report what you believe in good faith is discriminatory to HR or the EEOC. Complaining about harassment or discrimination in good faith is considered a protected activity under anti-discrimination laws. Your employer may not retaliate against you for filing a charge or complaining about discrimination in good faith. Retaliation may take various forms, including a termination, a failure to promote, or a failure to provide benefits.

Retaliation remains a pertinent concern for many employees. It can seem daunting to voice concerns, but legal protections firmly prohibit retaliation. If you believe that adverse actions have been taken against you for raising concerns about discrimination or harassment, act promptly. Detailed documentation and professional legal advice are vital in standing up to unjust workplace practices.

Local Resources and Support Systems in Princeton

Princeton offers a range of local resources that employees can access for support and guidance on employment-related issues. Institutions like the New Jersey Department of Labor and the Division on Civil Rights can provide additional assistance and information to employees who suspect discrimination or unfair treatment in the workplace. Utilizing these local resources can be key to understanding your rights and navigating your options effectively.

Moreover, community organizations in the Princeton area often host workshops and seminars that address common employment issues, providing information on employee rights and legal recourse. Engaging with these organizations can provide invaluable support and empower employees to advocate for their rights confidently and knowledgeably. Whether dealing with harassment, discrimination, or wrongful termination, the wealth of local resources ensures that Princeton employees have access to the tools needed to address workplace injustices.

Don't hesitate—reach out to an experienced employment law lawyer near you in Princeton now. Call (866) 475-4267 or complete an online form to take the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions about Employment Law in Princeton

What Constitutes Workplace Harassment Under Local and Federal Law?

Workplace harassment involves unwelcome conduct based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin. It becomes unlawful when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment, or the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive. Both local New Jersey laws and federal statutes, like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the NJLAD, provide frameworks that prohibit such behavior. These laws ensure that employees have the right to a workplace free from insulting or intimidating conduct that is tied to their characteristics, and facilitate legal action when these rights are violated.

How Can an Employment Lawyer Assist With Discrimination Claims?

An employment lawyer can play a crucial role in discrimination claims by guiding employees through the complex legal landscape. They can assist in collecting necessary evidence, filing claims with appropriate agencies, and negotiating settlements, all while explaining the claimant's rights and options at each step. In particular, lawyers familiar with both Princeton and New Jersey-specific employment laws can leverage their local insights to bolster a case effectively. They help ensure that claims are timely filed and meet all procedural requirements, which is pivotal for a successful outcome. Additionally, they can represent employees in court if litigation becomes necessary, striving to achieve justice and fair compensation for the employee.

What Should I Do if I Face Retaliation at Work?

If you face retaliation at work, such as demotion, termination, or unfavorable changes in job conditions after reporting discrimination or harassment, it is vital to document every instance meticulously. Keep records of any communication related to your complaint and retaliation, and gather witness statements if possible. Then, consult with an employment attorney who can evaluate your case and advise on the best course of action. Many state and federal laws, including the NJLAD and Title VII, safeguard employees from retaliation, ensuring you have legal avenues to clear your name and seek redress. Taking swift action not only safeguards your current employment situation but also aids in establishing a clear, strong narrative should legal intervention be required.

What Is the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, and How Does It Protect Employees?

The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) is a state statute that prohibits discrimination and harassment based on numerous personal traits like race, religion, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability. It applies to employers, housing providers, and places of public accommodation, making it one of the most comprehensive laws of its kind. For employees, the NJLAD mandates equal treatment in all aspects of employment, from hiring to retirement. It also forbids employment practices that disproportionately affect members of protected categories unless these practices are justified by a legitimate, non-discriminatory business need. With its broad scope, the NJLAD strengthens protection beyond federal laws, offering vital support to employees facing workplace discrimination in New Jersey.

What Are My Options if an Employer Violates the Family Medical Leave Act?

If an employer violates the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which guarantees eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division. Alternatively, after exhausting administrative remedies, pursuing a lawsuit may be an option. Engaging with a knowledgeable employment attorney is crucial in these situations to navigate the intricacies of proving an FMLA violation, such as demonstrating the failure to restore you to your previous position or retaliation for taking leave. The attorney can provide advice tailored to your situation, ensuring all procedural steps are followed correctly, enhancing your chances of securing the legal relief you deserve. Engaging legal support strengthens your case and helps secure your rights under both state and federal law.

Contact an Employment Attorney in the Princeton Area

Founded before the American Revolution, Princeton is probably best known for Princeton University. However, it is also home to many other institutions and corporations, including Bristol-Myers Squibb, Opinion Research Corporation, Dow Jones & Company, Siemens Corporate Research, and the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. If you believe that you may have been discriminated against or harassed in your workplace, the Princeton employment lawyers at Phillips & Associates, PLLC may be able to counsel you and represent you in a lawsuit for damages. Contact us at (866) 475-4267 or via our online form for a free appointment with a discrimination or sexual harassment attorney. Our employment lawyers help people in communities, such as Passaic, Bergen, Morris, Essex, Union, Hudson, Somerset, Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer, Burlington, and Camden Counties.

Engaging a local employment law attorney offers a strategic advantage, particularly in leveraging their understanding of Princeton's unique corporate and legal environment. This familiarity can be instrumental in navigating complex workplace relationships and organizational structures, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable resolution.

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100 Overlook Center 2nd Floor
Princeton, NJ 08540

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Phone: (866) 475-4267

Get the support you need from our skilled Princeton employment law attorney Phillips & Associates, PLLC. Reach out via online form or dial (866) 475-4267 now to book your no-cost initial consultation.