Certain characteristics are protected against discrimination under both and federal laws in East Ridge and other communities of Tennessee. Government and private employers in East Ridge may 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 can occur if the employer treats an employee unfairly based on their membership in a class that is legally protected. Employers may not base their evaluations of you on certain traits including religion, race, age, gender, national origin, and familial status. In East Ridge, Tennessee, in order to succeed on an employment discrimination claim, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the employer's intent in treating them differently was based on the protected status.

How can Employment Discrimination be Proven in Tennessee?

This may be demonstrated if the employer has treated others of the same status similarly, or when people testify to specific statements made by the employer that would indicate bias when heard by a reasonable person. Additionally, an employer violates the law if they terminate a person's employment or otherwise retaliate in response to a discrimination lawsuit filed against them.

Pursuing an employment discrimination claim can often be complicated, because they involve filing your claim with certain agencies. An East Ridge, Tennessee attorney can help you file on time, as well as pursue any additional remedies that may be available to you while your case is pending.