Sexual Orientation LGBT
In Atlantic County, New Jersey, individuals are afforded extensive protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation, thanks to regulations outlined in the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD). This legislation not only prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation but also encompasses transgender identities and gender expressions within its scope.
Under New Jersey law, employees are safeguarded from discriminatory practices related to “sexual or affectional orientation,” covering a broad spectrum of sexual and romantic attractions toward individuals of various genders.
These attractions may encompass:
- Heterosexuality, indicating an attraction to individuals of a different gender
- Homosexuality, reflecting an attraction to individuals of the same gender
- Bisexuality, denoting an attraction to individuals of both genders
- Transgender identity, where an individual’s gender identity or expression does not align with their assigned sex at birth
- Gender identity or expression, which pertains to an individual’s internal sense of being male or female, or their outward expression of gender, often manifested through attire, behavior, or physical characteristics traditionally associated with masculinity or femininity.
Enforcement of the LAD falls under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR), which recognizes specific protected categories of “sexual orientations” as outlined above.
Employers are explicitly prohibited from engaging in discriminatory practices against employees based on any of these characteristics. Such practices may include refusal to hire, termination, harassment, disparate pay, or unequal treatment in employment terms and conditions, as stipulated by the DCR.
Additionally, the LAD extends protection against discrimination based on “perceived” sexual orientation. Notably, a case in New Jersey involved a police officer who was denied a promotion due to his supervisor’s mistaken perception of his sexual orientation, resulting in a significant settlement in a lawsuit.
Individuals experiencing sexual orientation discrimination in New Jersey have avenues for seeking redress through the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights within 180 days of the last discriminatory act or through legal channels in the Superior Court within two years.
Contact Our Experienced Atlantic County Sexual Orientation Discrimination Law Attorneys
For expert legal counsel and representation regarding sexual orientation discrimination matters in the Atlantic County area, individuals can rely on the experienced attorneys at Castronovo & McKinney. With a proven track record of handling such claims, both in and out of court, our attorneys are dedicated to vigorously defending your rights. Contact us today to begin safeguarding your interests.