Both Iowa and the federal government have passed laws that prohibiting discrimination on the basis of particular protected characteristics. Employers in the city of Mason City, whether public or private, can be held liable under federal and state laws depending on the type of trait first prompted the discrimination.

How Does Employment Discrimination Occur?

Employment discrimination can occur if the employer treats an employee unfairly based on their membership in a category that is legally protected. Race, gender, religion, familial status and national origin are examples of some traits that employers can not use when evaluating you. In order for a claim of employment discrimination to be successful, a Mason City, Iowa plaintiff must show that his (or her) employer actively intended to treat him differently because of his protected status.

How can Employment Discrimination be Proven in Iowa?

This is shown upon finding a prior history of similar treatment of members of the same class, or upon testimony regarding the employer's statements that a reasonable person would understand to be biased. Furthermore, employers who fire someone or retaliate against them for bringing a discrimination lawsuit are clearly in violation of the law.

Employment discrimination claims have complicated filing procedures, because they involve pursuing the claim with particular agencies. A Mason City, Iowa lawyer can help you file in a timely manner, and while your case is pending, they can help you in pursuing any available remedies.