Sex-Based Discrimination

• What is sex/gender discrimination?
• What to do if you believe you have been unlawfully treated?
• You have to act promptly.

Working people are protected against discrimination on the basis of sex/gender.  We have represented many victims of discrimination based on sex/gender and have achieved compensation and job protection when they have been treated unlawfully.  Employment lawyers at Galfand Berger are here to help you and protect you from sex-based discrimination and harassment.

What is sex/gender discrimination?

Federal and state law protect individuals against employment discrimination on the basis of sex.  It is against the law for an employer to discriminate against any employee, or applicant for employment, because of his/her sex in regard to:  hiring, termination, promotion, compensation, job training, or any other term, condition, or privilege of employment.

These laws also prohibit employment decisions based on stereotypes and assumptions about abilities, traits, or the performance of individuals on the basis of sex.  And, these laws prohibit both intentional discrimination and neutral job policies that disproportionately exclude individuals on the basis of sex and that are not job related.

What to do if you believe you have been unlawfully treated?

Many companies have policies regarding any discrimination, harassment or retaliation in their company handbook. Likewise, they may have reporting requirements, which may require you to follow a certain procedure.  You should request the company to take action to stop and correct discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. You should follow those procedures and document your actions in writing.  Failure to follow those procedures may lead to a denial of your rights to recover legal damages for the improper action of the company.

You have to act promptly.

There is a limited time in which you can bring a claim for discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. You must file your claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) under Title VII of the Civil Rights within 180 days of the last act of discrimination and/or the same holds true for filing a state claim with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC). However, if you file a claim with the PHRC within 180 days of the last act of discrimination or harassment, you can file a claim with the EEOC within 300 days of the last act of discrimination or harassment.

If you believe that you have a claim for discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, please contact our office for a free case evaluation and assistance in filing your claim.