Bergen County Racial Discrimination Attorney

Bergen County Racial Discrimination

Racial Discrimination in the Workplace in Bergen County, NJ

Racial discrimination in the workplace is against the law. If your employer has treated you unfairly because of your race, ethnicity, or national origin in Bergen County, NJ, Castronovo & McKinney, LLC can help. Our attorneys represent employees in workplace discrimination claims and fight to protect their rights under New Jersey and federal law.

Recognizing Racial Discrimination at Work

Employees in Bergen County have the right to work in an environment free from racial discrimination. We represent individuals who have been denied employment, paid unfairly, passed over for promotions, wrongfully disciplined, demoted, or terminated because of their race, ethnicity, or national origin. Every case is different, and we develop legal strategies based on the specific facts of your situation.

Illegal Employment Decisions Based on Race

Employers cannot make hiring, firing, promotion, compensation, or other employment decisions based on race, ethnicity, or national origin. If an employer’s actions are motivated by racial bias, they may be violating state and federal law. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC represents employees throughout Bergen County and across New Jersey who have experienced unlawful workplace discrimination.

Racial Discrimination Laws in New Jersey

Federal law prohibits racial discrimination in the workplace. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 applies to employers with 15 or more employees and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, and other protected characteristics. Before filing a lawsuit under Title VII, employees generally must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Our attorneys guide clients through the EEOC process and pursue legal action when appropriate.

New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD) provides broader protections for employees. Unlike federal law, the LAD allows many employees to file a lawsuit directly without first filing a complaint with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights. We pursue negotiated resolutions when possible, but we are fully prepared to litigate when necessary to protect our clients’ rights.

Types of Racial Discrimination

Disparate Treatment

Disparate treatment occurs when an employee is intentionally treated differently because of race. Examples include denying promotions to qualified employees of a particular race, imposing harsher discipline on certain racial groups, paying employees differently for the same work, or enforcing workplace policies selectively. Employers may also violate the law by banning natural hairstyles or grooming practices associated with certain racial or ethnic groups.

If you believe you have experienced disparate treatment in Bergen County, our attorneys can evaluate your claim and explain your legal options.

Disparate Impact

Disparate impact occurs when a workplace policy appears neutral but disproportionately harms employees of a particular racial or ethnic group. Examples include hiring requirements, testing procedures, or other employment policies that unfairly exclude qualified applicants or employees. Employers must be able to show that these policies are job-related and necessary for the position.

Our attorneys can determine whether a workplace policy violates anti-discrimination laws and pursue legal action when appropriate.

Building a Racial Discrimination Claim

A successful racial discrimination claim often requires evidence that you are a member of a protected class, were qualified for your position, suffered an adverse employment action, and that your race, ethnicity, or national origin was a factor in your employer’s decision. Documentation, witness testimony, employment records, and other evidence can play an important role in proving your case.

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC thoroughly investigates every claim to build the strongest possible case for our clients.

Speak With a Bergen County Racial Discrimination Lawyer

If you have experienced racial discrimination at work in Bergen County, NJ, you may have legal options. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC represents employees throughout Bergen County and across New Jersey in workplace discrimination claims. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help protect your rights.