Workplace Discrimination Claims

Every employee has the right to work in an environment free of hostility and discrimination. If you feel you have been a victim of discrimination in the workplace, an experienced employment lawyer can help you determine whether you have legal grounds to file a civil claim.

The Law Firm of Stephen S. Burgoon represents clients in Frederick, Maryland, and the surrounding areas with all types of employment law matters. Having represented both employers and employees in matters of discrimination, attorney Stephen Burgoon brings a comprehensive understanding to help clients protect their rights.

Note that you cannot simply file a claim because of personal differences between you and a co-worker or your boss. Mr. Burgoon can help you determine whether the actions of others or of your employer have truly violated state or federal policies protecting employees against discrimination based on gender, race, age, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or national origin.

Protecting Employees’ Rights Against Discrimination

Mr. Burgoon provides personalized guidance in all types of discrimination claims, including:

• Race discrimination such as racial slurs or comments, even those made “as a joke”
• Sexual harassment ranging from lewd comments to unwanted sexual advances
• Age discrimination against employees 40 and older in terms of receiving work hours or being hired or promoted
• Disability discrimination such as failing to make necessary accommodations required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Repeated actions constituting a hostile work environment
• Retaliation or wrongful termination after reporting discriminatory actions to human resources or a government agency

Before filing a civil claim for discrimination, you must first file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency charged with protecting employees’ rights against discrimination in the workplace. Depending on the nature of your claim, you may also need to work with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, which investigates claims based on religious or sexual orientation discrimination.

Mr. Burgoon can guide you through this process, including taking your claim to state or federal court, if necessary. His knowledge and practical insight gleaned from 20 years of experience means you will have the necessary tools to build a strong defense of your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Workplace Discrimination In Maryland

Employees dealing with discrimination at work often have questions about their rights, the filing process and what comes next. The answers below address some of the most common concerns Mr. Burgoon hears from clients in Frederick and the surrounding area.

Can my employer fire me for filing a discrimination complaint?

No. Firing or punishing an employee for filing a discrimination complaint is retaliation, which is separately prohibited under federal and Maryland law. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, reduced hours or reassignment taken because you reported discrimination or participated in an investigation. If your employer retaliates after you file with the EEOC or the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, that conduct can become the basis of an additional claim. Mr. Burgoon handles retaliation claims alongside discrimination cases.

Are religion-based scheduling conflicts protected under the law?

Yes. Federal law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for an employee’s sincerely held religious beliefs unless doing so would create an undue hardship for the business. That obligation covers Sabbath observance, prayer times and religious holidays. An employer cannot simply refuse without first exploring whether an accommodation is workable. If your employer has denied a religious accommodation request or disciplined you for observing a religious practice, you may have grounds for a claim.

What compensation can I recover in a discrimination lawsuit?

The types of compensation available depend on the nature of your claim and the harm you suffered. In federal discrimination cases, recoverable damages commonly include back pay for lost wages, front pay for future lost earnings, reinstatement to your former position and compensation for emotional distress. Punitive damages may be available in cases involving intentional discrimination. Attorney fees and litigation costs can also be recoverable. Mr. Burgoon can assess which claims apply to your situation and identify the full range of relief available to you.

Contact A Montgomery County Lawyer Handling Workplace Discrimination Claims

To discuss your case in a confidential setting and understand more about your rights, call 240-315-5432 or fill out the online contact form. Weekend appointments are available by request.