Employment discrimination can be a traumatic experience, especially if it affects your livelihood and career prospects. Fortunately, you don't have to suffer in silence.
Federal and state laws prohibit employment discrimination based on several protected characteristics, such as race, age, gender, disability, national origin, and religion. If you suspect that you're a victim of employment discrimination, you have the legal right to take action against your employer.
But what can you get out of an employment discrimination lawsuit? In this blog, we'll explore the potential benefits of an employment discrimination lawsuit.
Financial Compensation
The most common outcome of an employment discrimination lawsuit is financial compensation. This compensation can include backpay, future lost wages, and damages for emotional distress. You can also receive compensation for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your discrimination, such as medical bills or job search costs.
If you wish to fight for financial compensation, however, you must prove that you suffered economic harm because of discrimination. You can do this by citing promotions or raises you should have earned as well as benefits that your colleagues receive that you did not.
In some cases, a court may award punitive damages, which are designed to punish your employer for engaging in egregious conduct. Punitive damages can be substantial and may increase the overall value of your lawsuit. However, they are only awarded in cases involving particularly outrageous conduct, such as intentional discrimination or harassment.
Job Reinstatement or Promotion
In certain situations, you may be entitled to reinstatement or promotion if your employer unfairly terminated or demoted you due to discrimination. If your former position is no longer available, you may be entitled to a comparable position. This type of remedy is more common in cases of wrongful termination, but it may also be available in cases involving demotions or transfers.
Changes to Employer Policies & Practices
Winning an employment discrimination lawsuit can also result in changes to your employer's policies and practices. For example, your employer may be required to implement new anti-discrimination training programs or hire an ombudsperson to handle discrimination complaints. These changes can benefit other employees and may help prevent future instances of discrimination.
Increased Awareness & Empowerment
Finally, an employment discrimination lawsuit can increase your own awareness of your rights and empower you to stand up against discrimination. By taking legal action, you may inspire others to do the same and contribute to a larger movement toward fair treatment in the workplace. In addition, you may feel a sense of closure and vindication when your lawsuit is successful.
We Can Help You with Your Discrimination Claim
If you experienced discrimination in the workplace, filing a lawsuit can help you fight for the compensation you need to move forward. It can also create meaningful change that can help you regain your job, initialize fairer employment policies, and even inspire industry-wide change.
There’s a lot you can gain for yourself and others, which is why you should consult with an experienced employment lawyer for help. Our legal team at K2 Employment Law has the experience and skill it takes to help you with your workplace discrimination claim.
Contact us online or call (800) 590-7674 to request a free consultation.