Does the glass ceiling exist for female professionals? Two female attorneys at some of the largest law firms in the country feel it does. Philadelphia employment lawyers report that female attorneys at two separate firms are suing their employers for what they feel is unfair treatment in comparison to their male counterparts. Both lawyers allege that although they meet, and in some cases exceeded performance and revenue expectations, they were paid significantly less than their male peers performing the same or worse.
Two Female Attorneys Speak Out Against the Glass Ceiling
In her recent lawsuit, one employee alleges that her employer, international law firm, Sedgwick LLP, maintains a male-dominated culture that limits women from breaking the glass ceiling – or in her case – achieving equity partnership. In her lawsuit she names a group of female associates at the firm who make upwards of $50,000 less than men in the same position.
She also alleges that her attempts to address the pay disparity at Sedgwick were met with dismissive and sexist comments. Her Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaint filed earlier this year is under investigation. Sedgwick’s Chair calls the woman’s allegations baseless and insists the firm offers fair compensation and promotes diversity in all aspects of the business.
Another female attorney reacted against what she considers gender discrimination, suing her former employer, LeClairRyan, earlier this year. She alleged that the system the firm uses to compensate employees is not transparent and favors male employees. She also says although she met all performance expectations, she was still only paid half of that of her male peers.
The lawsuit claims that females were often assigned lower rates than men, making it more difficult to meet their target goals. LeClairRyan’s Chief Legal Officer denies the allegations, citing the firm was recently named among the top 100 for women.
The results of both cases are pending litigation, but in the meantime, they raise important questions. What recourse do female professionals have when facing gender discrimination and pay disparity in the workplace? Should they just do their best or should they fight for equal pay and opportunities?
Philadelphia Employment Lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates P.C Fight Gender Discrimination on the Job
Under the law, men and women are to be treated equally at work. That includes hiring, promotions, training, work conditions, benefits and compensation. If you feel that your employer made assumptions about your ability to do your job and has treated you accordingly, you may have some recourse. Philadelphia employment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates have been handling employment discrimination and pay inequity cases for more than 30 years and can help you receive equal pay for equal work. Call our Center City offices at 215-569-1999 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation regarding your case. We work with clients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.
