Minneapolis Employment Discrimination Lawyers

Employment discrimination involves unjust or prejudiced treatment of employees or job applicants based on specific protected characteristics outlined in state and federal law. Discrimination can occur in multiple areas of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, pay, job assignments, benefits, and training opportunities. Discrimination undermines the principles of equality and fairness, creating a hostile and unproductive work environment.

At RWI Law, our team understands the injustice of discriminatory actions directed toward those in the workplace. We work aggressively to protect employee rights under the law through appropriate legal action. 

Our attorneys can provide comprehensive representation if you or someone you know has suffered workplace discrimination in Minneapolis,  Hennepin County, or within the Twin Cities Metro area. Let us advise you on your rights, obligations, and legal options. 

Schedule a confidential consultation with a Minneapolis employment discrimination attorney at RWI Law. Call (320) 408-2614 or submit your information on our online contact form.

What Are Protected Characteristics under the Law?

Protected characteristics are specific attributes or traits that are legally safeguarded from discrimination in the workplace. 

Under various state and federal laws, employees and job applicants are protected from discriminatory practices based on the following characteristics:

• Race and color: Employees cannot be mistreated because of their race or skin color.
• National origin: This is protection against discrimination based on an individual's birthplace, ethnicity, culture, or linguistic characteristics.
• Sex and gender: This includes protection against discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.
• Religion: Employees have the right to be free from discrimination based on their religious beliefs, practices, or lack thereof.
• Age: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals aged 40 and older against age discrimination.
• Disability: This protects individuals with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities, as outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Marital status: Legal safeguards in the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) protect against discrimination based on one's marital status, whether single, married, divorced, or widowed.
• Family status: Workers are protected from discrimination due to familial responsibilities, including parenthood. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) protects pregnant women from employment discrimination. 
• Veteran status: Veterans, particularly those with disabilities, are protected against employment discrimination under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. 

In addition to the state and federal laws mentioned above, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) was the landmark legislation that dramatically impacted civil rights and anti-discrimination in the U.S. This comprehensive piece of legislation addressed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It made employment discrimination illegal and paved the way for further legislative efforts to combat discrimination in public life. 

Types of Employment Discriminatory Actions

Discrimination can take many forms. Unequal treatment can be direct, such as when an employer refuses to promote an employee solely because of their age, despite the person’s qualifications and performance. 

Indirect discrimination can be policies or practices that appear neutral but disproportionately affect a protected group. For example, a company implementing a policy requiring all employees to work on Saturdays disproportionately affects employees who observe the Sabbath due to their religion.

Discrimination can also include harassment and retaliation. Harassment consists of a hostile work environment created through unwelcome actions or comments. A female employee subjected to continuous inappropriate remarks about her appearance by a male colleague is an example of workplace harassment.

Retaliation consists of adverse actions against employees who have filed a complaint of wrongdoing by their employer or have participated in an investigation regarding discrimination. 

Recourse for Employees Subjected to Workplace Discrimination

You have several avenues for recourse in workplace discrimination cases as a job applicant or employee. You can file an internal complaint with your employer’s human resources department or follow the company’s grievance procedures. These are procedures designed to address and resolve such issues internally. 

Other options are available if these procedures do not yield a satisfactory resolution. You can report the discrimination to government agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. These agencies are empowered to investigate complaints and enforce anti-discrimination laws. 

Additionally, you can seek legal action by consulting with an employment law attorney at RWI Law to explore the possibility of filing a lawsuit. This legal route allows you to seek compensation or other remedies for discriminatory actions you have endured. You must document instances of discrimination meticulously, as detailed records can significantly support your claims during investigations or legal proceedings.

Potential Compensation in Employment Discrimination Lawsuits

Possible compensation available in employment discrimination lawsuits varies based on the specifics of the case and the applicable governing laws. However, it can include back pay lost due to discrimination. When reinstating an employee is not feasible, front pay may be awarded to cover potential future earnings lost because of discrimination.

Other compensatory damages may cover emotional distress, pain, and suffering, or loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the discrimination. They may also include out-of-pocket expenses like medical bills.

Additionally, courts can order reinstatement to one’s job, granting a denied promotion, and the costs of legal representation and other court-related expenses. 

Contact RWI Law for Employment Discrimination Claims

Our team is committed to helping individuals navigate the complexities of employment discrimination. We can assist in filing complaints with government agencies, negotiating disputes between parties, or pursuing legal action in civil court. 

Reach out online or call (320) 408-2614 to discuss your case with a Minneapolis employment discrimination attorney today.