Center City Disability Discrimination Lawyers

Workplace disability discrimination can create significant barriers for employees, preventing them from accessing the opportunities and accommodations they deserve. When employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations, engage in discriminatory hiring or firing practices, or create a hostile work environment, affected employees may have legal recourse.

At The Gold Law Firm P.C., we are committed to protecting the rights of workers who experience disability discrimination. Our experienced attorneys provide dedicated legal representation to ensure that employees receive fair treatment and the accommodations they need to thrive.

What Is Workplace Disability Discrimination?

Workplace disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly due to a physical or mental impairment. This can include refusal to hire, wrongful termination, failure to provide reasonable accommodations, or creating a hostile work environment. Under federal and state laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, individuals with disabilities have the right to equal employment opportunities.

Employers are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations that allow employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions. These accommodations may include modified work schedules, assistive technology, accessible office spaces, or adjustments to workplace policies. When an employer refuses to provide accommodations or retaliates against an employee for requesting them, they may be violating the law.

Federal and State Laws Protecting Disabled Workers

Several laws provide critical protections for disabled employees facing discrimination. These include:

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment. Under the ADA, employers with 15 or more employees must provide reasonable accommodations to qualified employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship. The law also protects employees from retaliation if they assert their rights under the ADA.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973

This federal law applies to government agencies and employers who receive federal funding. It ensures that individuals with disabilities are not excluded from employment opportunities solely based on their condition.

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA)

The PHRA expands protections for workers with disabilities in Pennsylvania, applying to employers with four or more employees. It provides additional remedies beyond those offered under federal laws, helping employees hold employers accountable for discrimination.

Common Examples of Workplace Disability Discrimination

Workplace disability discrimination can take many forms, including:

• Discriminatory Hiring Practices: Employers refusing to hire qualified candidates because of their disabilities.
• Wrongful Termination: Firing or demoting an employee based on their disability rather than job performance.
• Failure to Provide Reasonable Accommodations: Denying modifications that would allow an employee to perform their job effectively.
• Workplace Harassment: Subjecting employees with disabilities to offensive remarks, exclusion, or a hostile work environment.
• Retaliation: Punishing employees for requesting accommodations or reporting discrimination.
• Unfair Workplace Policies: Enforcing policies that disproportionately impact employees with disabilities without offering reasonable alternatives.

If you have experienced any of these forms of discrimination, you may have grounds for legal action against your employer.

What Are Reasonable Accommodations?

Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations that enable employees with disabilities to perform their job duties. Reasonable accommodations may include:

• Adjusting work schedules to accommodate medical treatments.
• Providing assistive technology, such as screen readers or voice recognition software.
• Allowing remote work or flexible work arrangements.
• Making physical modifications to the workplace, such as installing ramps or accessible restrooms.
• Adjusting job duties or policies to provide equal access to employment.

Employers who refuse to make these accommodations without a valid reason may be violating disability discrimination laws.

How to Prove Workplace Disability Discrimination

Proving disability discrimination in the workplace requires evidence that an employer treated an employee unfairly due to their disability. Evidence may include:

• Documentation of requests for accommodations and the employer’s response.
• Emails or written communications that demonstrate discriminatory intent.
• Testimonies from coworkers or supervisors who witnessed discrimination.
• Performance reviews that show unfair treatment after disclosing a disability.
• Records of adverse employment actions, such as demotions or terminations.

If you suspect you have been subjected to workplace disability discrimination, it is essential to consult an experienced lawyer who can help you build a strong case.

Steps to Take If You Experience Workplace Disability Discrimination

If you believe you are being discriminated against at work because of your disability, consider taking the following steps:

• Document Everything: Keep records of any discriminatory actions, including emails, written communications, and performance reviews.
• Report the Discrimination: Follow your company’s procedures for reporting discrimination, typically through HR or management.
• Request Accommodations in Writing: If you need accommodations, make your request in writing and keep a record of your employer’s response.
• File a Complaint: If your employer fails to address the issue, you may file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.
• Consult a Lawyer: A workplace disability discrimination lawyer can help you understand your rights and take legal action if necessary.

How a Workplace Disability Discrimination Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a workplace disability discrimination case requires knowledge of employment law, strong evidence, and a strategic legal approach. A skilled lawyer can help by:

• Gathering evidence to support your claim.
• Filing complaints with the EEOC or other relevant agencies.
• Negotiating with your employer to secure fair accommodations or compensation.
• Representing you in court if necessary.

At The Gold Law Firm P.C., we understand the challenges employees face when dealing with workplace discrimination. Our legal team works closely with clients to build strong cases, protect their rights, and seek compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. We also advocate for policy changes to ensure a more inclusive workplace for all employees.

Contact the Center City Disability Discrimination Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Today

If you believe you have been subjected to workplace disability discrimination, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The experienced Center City discrimination lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. are here to help. Contact us today at 215-569-1999 or online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we serve clients in South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Northeast Philadelphia, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lehigh County, Montgomery County, and Cherry Hill.