Montgomery County Discrimination Lawyers

Representing Victims of LGBTQ Discrimination

While The Civil Rights Act currently does not include individuals in the LGBTQ community, two state laws in Pennsylvania have been passed which make LGBTQ discrimination illegal for state employees and contractors. While legislation has made significant progress in Pennsylvania regarding LGTBQ discrimination, much more remains to be done. Discrimination and harassment for workers in this community are still prevalent, and many otherwise highly-qualified LGBTQ employees are denied employment, wrongfully terminated, and harassed.

The Montgomery County employment discrimination lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates P.C. have been advocating for LGBTQ rights in the workplace for decades. We understand that there is a gap in many federal and state laws for LGBTQ employees, but that has not stopped us from successfully fighting for them in the past. We have represented numerous victims of LGBTQ discrimination, securing them compensation for back pay and even reinstatement.

Discriminatory Hiring Practices

Gaining employment can be a difficult task for many LGTBQ individuals. For some reason, many employers see these individuals as a liability, and will often pass them up for employment. If an individual believes that they were discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, then they should contact our legal team immediately. Our lawyers have a successful track record of representing victims of discriminatory hiring practices.

Wrongful Termination

While finding employment may be difficult for many LGBTQ employees, keeping a job can prove to be just as challenging. Wrongful termination can occur when an individual comes out to a coworker or supervisor, or has their sexual orientation or gender identity revealed without their consent. Regardless of the circumstances, LGBTQ employees should be aware of their rights. Employees should be suspicious if their termination came in the wake of their coming out to a coworker or supervisor.

Harassment

Whatever the intent behind it, whether it is light joking or physical intimidation, harassment is illegal for all employers to engage in. While laws do not protect employees from simple teasing, if the behavior is continuous, even after the offender has been asked to stop or reprimanded, then it constitutes as harassment. Furthermore, touching, brushing up against, or blocking the way of an employee can all be counted as harassment as well if the behaviors are repetitive.

When You Should Seek Legal Counsel

The following list provides some examples of LGBTQ discrimination in the workplace. Individuals who have experienced any of these instances should seek the counsel of our Montgomery County employment lawyers.

If you have been denied benefits based on the fact that you are not in a heterosexual relationship.
If your boss fires you on the suspicion that you are LGBTQ, even if you are not.
You employer treated you differently upon learning your sexual orientation or gender identity.
You are mocked for your mannerisms, way of dressing, and overall gender
Your employer excludes you or treats you differently from other workers.
You are constantly disciplined more than other employees and have been denied benefits or rewards.
You were disciplined for wearing clothing that was compatible with your gender identity.