Legal Protection Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination in Union County, NJ
Employees in Union County, NJ, are protected under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD), which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, including gender identity and expression. This law safeguards employees from unfair treatment, harassment, or any adverse employment actions due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Types of Sexual Orientations and Gender Identities Protected
The LAD protects individuals from discrimination based on a variety of sexual orientations and gender identities:
- Heterosexuality: Attraction to individuals of the opposite gender.
- Homosexuality: Attraction to individuals of the same gender.
- Bisexuality: Attraction to individuals of both genders.
- Transgender Identity: A gender identity or expression that differs from the sex assigned at birth.
- Gender Identity or Expression: An individual’s personal sense of gender or how they choose to express it.
Enforcement of Sexual Orientation Protections
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) enforces the provisions of the LAD. Employers cannot engage in discriminatory practices, including denying employment opportunities, terminating employees, paying them differently, or subjecting them to harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Any violation of these protections can result in significant legal consequences.
Protection Against Perceived Discrimination
The LAD also offers protection against discrimination based on perceived sexual orientation. This means that an employee cannot be discriminated against simply because an employer believes them to be of a certain sexual orientation, even if that belief is incorrect. For example, a police officer in New Jersey won a settlement after being denied a promotion due to his supervisor’s mistaken perception of his sexual orientation.
Legal Recourse for Discrimination Victims
If you have experienced sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace, you have legal recourse. Victims can file a claim with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights within 180 days of the last discriminatory act. Alternatively, you can file a lawsuit in New Jersey Superior Court within two years.
Contact Our Union County Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorneys
If you or someone you know has been discriminated against due to sexual orientation or gender identity in Union County, NJ, contact the experienced attorneys at Castronovo & McKinney. We specialize in representing individuals facing discrimination in the workplace, ensuring their rights are upheld and their cases are handled with the utmost care and expertise.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.