Particular characteristics are protected against discrimination under both and federal laws in Washington County and other communities of Pennsylvania. Government and private employers in Washington County can be held liable under state and federal law depending on what kind of trait the discriminatory treatment was based upon.

How Does Employment Discrimination Occur?

Employment discrimination occurs when an employer treats you unfairly because you belong to a legally protected category. Employers are prohibited from using particular traits to evaluate you such as national origin, religion, race, age, familial status, or gender. In Washington County, Pennsylvania, in order to succeed on an employment discrimination claim, the plaintiff must show that the employer's intent in treating them differently was based on the protected status.

How can Employment Discrimination be Proven in Pennsylvania?

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. Additionally, an employer who fires someone or otherwise retaliates because of a discrimination lawsuit is in clear violation of the law.

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