Employees in Florida expect to be evaluated based on their work performance. Whether people receive a job offer, receive a promotion or raise should all be based on the qualifications of the employees and nothing else. However, employers sometimes make decisions based on other factors. It could be hiring a family member or friend instead of a more qualified candidate. Sometimes they also may make decisions based on certain factors of the candidate such as their race, gender, religion and other factors.
If the decision is made based on the employee being a part of a protected class, it is considered discrimination and it is illegal. Discrimination can come in many different forms as well. It can include major decisions such as being fired, not hired or demotions, but it also includes other forms of unfair treatment.
Various forms of discrimination employees may experience
Other types of unfair treatment include, but are not limited to:
- Not being provided the same working conditions as other employees in their position
- Not being provided the same benefits as other employees
- Rules are being enforced differently for them
- They are being harassed based on their religion, race, gender, age or other protected classes
- Not granted reasonable accommodations for their religion or disability
- Asked inappropriate questions about their medical history or
- Are being retaliated against because they participated in an investigation or helped a fellow employee who was the subject of discrimination.
Discrimination should never occur in workplaces in Florida and there are laws protecting employees. There are also both state and federal laws protecting employees from discrimination and people may be able to file claims against their employer for violating the laws. Through these claims the employees may be able to receive compensation for the damages they suffer such as back pay and lost benefits among other damages. Experienced attorneys understand employees’ rights and may be able to help protect them.