Delaware County LGBTQ Lawyers

Defending the Rights of LGBTQ Workers

Since the Civil Rights Movement fifty years ago, society has progressed at a steady pace. While it has been slow moving and hard-fought for, representation in the workplace for women and minorities has improved significantly, though certain problems still persist.

Amidst all this progress for women and minorities, individuals in the LGBTQ community have felt underrepresented when it comes to their employee rights and often experience challenges—through no fault of their own—in finding and securing employment. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects individuals from discriminatory practices based on their “race, color, religion, sex, or national origin,” but overlooks sexual orientation and gender expression. As a result, instances of discrimination and harassment are typical for LGBTQ workers, with hostile work environments being common.

At The Gold Law Firm P.C.., our skilled Delaware County LGBTQ lawyers have been at the forefront of fighting employment discrimination for over 40 years. We understand the struggle LGBTQ workers face every day in terms of employment and have successfully protected their rights in both harassment and discrimination cases.

Harassment

Workplace harassment for LGTBQ employees can take various forms, from unintentional albeit inappropriate jokes to offensive slurs said in anger. Since harassment is so varied, it can be explained in three different categories: verbal, non-verbal, and physical.

Verbal

• Comments on one’s physical appearance or body language
• Comments that are degrading in nature
• Jokes or insults regarding one’s orientation, gender, or gender expression

Non-Verbal

• Leaving inappropriate notes or gifts
• Making inappropriate gestures
• Staring

Physical

• Blocking an individual’s way or other intimidating acts
• Brushing against an individual
• Touching, hugging, or kissing

Discrimination

While harassment affects employees in the workplace, discrimination adversely affects how they find and advance in a job. It can affect hiring, promotions, and firing, and—if left unpunished—has the potential to stymie one’s career.

Hiring and Promotions

Employers may see hiring an LGBTQ employee as a liability or may think that they cannot perform as well as another employee. Whatever the reason, denying someone employment based on their sexual orientation or gender expression is illegal. Additionally, not promoting an LGBTQ employee based solely or partially on their sexuality is a discriminatory action and violators can face steep fines.

Firing

By coming out to coworkers regarding their sexuality, LGBTQ workers may put themselves at risk for termination. Terminations that follow on the heels of an employee’s coming out should always be brought to the attention of an employment lawyer.

Furthermore, employees who report an employer’s discriminatory practices and are then fired or demoted for doing so have been retaliated against, and should seek out the counsel of a skilled employment lawyer quickly.

Delaware County LGBTQ Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Defend Against Workplace Harassment and Discrimination

If you or someone you love has been affected by workplace discrimination or harassment based on their gender, gender expression, or sexual orientation, you are urged to contact the skilled Delaware County LGTBQ lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. We are staunch advocates for those in the LGBTQ community and have decades of experience in litigation for those affected by discrimination and harassment. Do not let the discriminatory practices of an employer affect your career. Our skilled, resolute lawyers will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation. Call our Philadelphia offices at 215-569-1999 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

We defend the rights of clients all throughout the Greater Philadelphia Area, including Montgomery County, Delaware County, Philadelphia County, Bucks County, and Chester County.