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Disability Discrimination FAQs

Disability Discrimination Attorneys Assisting Orange County Residents

Disability DiscriminationIndividuals with disabilities have the right to work without being discriminated against. Unfortunately, disability discrimination occurs, and those subject to it often are confused about what legal options they may have. The Orange County disability discrimination lawyers at the Serendib Law Firm are available to help answer any questions you have about your legal rights. The following are questions we frequently get asked that might provide guidance for your situation. If you need further assistance, please contact our office today to speak with an attorney.

  1. What Laws Protect Me From Discrimination at Work?
  2. What Qualifies as a ‘Disability’?
  3. What Reasonable Accommodations Can I Expect From an Employer?
  4. What Actions Are Considered Discriminatory?
  5. How Can I Hold My Employer Responsible for Discriminating Against Me?
  6. What Kind of Compensation Will I Be Entitled To?
  7. How Much Time Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
  8. Who Can I Talk to About My Legal Options?

What Laws Protect Me From Discrimination at Work?

Federally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects disabled individuals from discrimination. In California, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) also prohibits disability discrimination. California law offers more protections, and broader coverage, for disabled employees in the state. However, both require covered employers under each law to provide reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities.

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What Qualifies as a ‘Disability’?

Under the FEHA, a disability is a physical or mental impairment that restricts a major life function, such as working. The ADA, however, adds the qualifier that the impairment must ‘substantially’ restrict a major life activity. Some examples of disabilities include cancer or arthritis, as well as psychiatric disorders such as PTSD. A knowledgeable Orange County disability discrimination attorney can help you assess whether your condition qualifies under either statute.

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What Reasonable Accommodations Can I Expect From an Employer?

Both the FEHA and ADA require employers to provide ‘reasonable accommodations’ for disabled employees, as long as the accommodation does not impose an undue hardship on the operation of business. Depending on your specific circumstances, accommodations can vary. Generally, employers can allow for increased breaks or break time, specialized equipment to aid in job duties, a flexible work schedule, providing accessibility to facilities as well as allowing time for employees to go to medical appointments.

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What Actions Are Considered Discriminatory?

The FEHA not only prohibits discrimination based on an actual disability, but also any discrimination based on a perceived disability or of employees with a history of having a known disability. Discrimination is any adverse employment action taken against an employee based on their disability. These adverse actions may include demotions, terminations, failure to hire or promote, as well as reducing pay or disparate pay. Harassment or creation of a hostile work environment is also discriminatory. If you’ve been subject to discrimination at work, it is important to contact an experienced disability discrimination lawyer in Orange County as soon as possible so that your rights can be properly protected.

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How Can I Hold My Employer Responsible for Discriminating Against Me?

Filing a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) is most often the first step in pursuing a discrimination claim. Next, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. In discrimination cases, a plaintiff must show that they were treated unfairly due to their disability despite being qualified and competent at their job. These steps are subject to different statutes of limitations. It is highly advisable to consult with an experienced disability discrimination attorney as soon as possible.

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What Kind of Compensation Will I Be Entitled To?

Every circumstance is different, but generally if discrimination is shown, an employee can be awarded damages for back pay, expenses related to job search, medical costs, and attorney’s fees. When employers act with extreme malice, punitive damages can also be awarded.

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How Much Time Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?

As of January 2020, the FEHA one-year statute of limitations was extended to three years from the date of the discrimination, retaliation, or harassment.

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Who Can I Talk to About My Legal Options?

Orange County disability discrimination attorneys at the Serendib Law Firm are available to speak with you about your situation and determine what your next legal step should be. If you have questions about your legal rights and options, please call our office today at 1-800-LAW-8825 (800-529-8825) or contact us online. We help clients throughout Southern California, not only in Orange County, but Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties as well.

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"Integrity, competency, and compassion! Dimuth Amaratunga has represented me and counseled me in several matters over the last several years, and each time, I have benefited tremendously from his knowledge, his wisdom and his empathy. He is without a doubt an authority in employment law and personal injury. But most importantly, he has compassion and truly focused on getting the best result for his clients. I am a practicing attorney and I wholeheartedly recommend him and his firm!" David J.