As we have noted in a number of our posts, being the victim of discrimination in the workplace can be a traumatic experience. On the one hand, you may despise how you have been treated, and you are certainly ready for it to stop. On the other hand, you need the job so you can meet your financial burdens, so walking off the job may not be an option, and being fired can be devastating.
If you are a victim of discrimination and you are looking for an attorney to advise you, there are several things that he or she will need to review to evaluate your situation. This post will highlight a few of them.
Your personnel record – Initially, an experienced employment law attorney will need to review your personnel file to see if there are any disciplinary issues or poor performance evaluations that may form the basis of a discrimination claim.
An employee handbook – An employer is required by law to follow their own anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies. If the policies set forth in the handbook have not been followed (either in the enforcement of the policies or investigation of complaints), you may be on good footing.
Pay records – Your pay information is essential in establishing a legal basis for damages. This is especially important if you are claiming that you have been paid differently (i.e. less) because of your protected status.
If you have additional questions about documents that can prove discrimination or the money lost because of discrimination, an experienced employment law attorney can advise you.