A Discrimination Lawyer Explains How to Avoid and Deal with Discrimination in the Workplace 

a female employee discriminating against another employee as she stares in disbelief

As adults, we spend a lot of time in the workplace. We work hard to make a living, to support our families, and to have money to buy what we need. Since we spend over 40 hours in the workplace, that means we also spend those hours with our coworkers and, if you’re an employer, your employees. When a group of different people spends many hours together, they can become close. You’ve more than likely been employed in an office that was very tightly knit. You and your coworkers were friends who chatted about each other’s lives and had fun while working to make a living. But what happens when the workplace becomes a place that breeds discrimination? These issues are apparent and, sadly, rampant in offices all over the United States. A discrimination lawyer can help. If you’re in El Paso and you’re facing legal issues, the Law Office of Perry Piñón can offer the legal assistance you need.

It’s All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Discriminated Against

Let’s imagine a modern workplace. There are desks with modern computers on them, employees sit in close proximity to each other as they work. This close proximity can result in friendly chats that can make the day go by faster. But what happens when these friendly chats turn to something offensive? It’s important to understand that your coworkers may be friendly and kind but they’re not technically your friends. At least not at the start of employment. This is important to keep in mind in case you make a joke that your coworker may find offensive.

A simple remark or joke you find funny can go from bad to worse. Not only will your supervisor talk to you about the incident but Human Relations can get involved. This can potentially, in extreme cases, lead to you losing your job. The best way to avoid this is to keep in mind where you are and those around you. Also, remember to think before you speak. You never know who you can offend with an offhand remark.

But What About When A Supervisor Discriminates? 

Now that we’ve discussed discrimination on the employee scale, it’s time to move on to the supervisors. Supervisors and bosses hold a certain degree of responsibility and power over those who work below them. This power can sometimes translate and manifest into a tough environment. It all depends on the managing style of your supervisor. Be sure to keep in mind that some bosses may be strict but if you feel as if your boss is being more strict to employees of a certain gender, race, ethnicity, or age, then you’re more than likely witnessing acts of discrimination. When this occurs, it’s best to seek legal assistance. Tell your coworker that something’s wrong and that you want to help out. Or just let them know they should get legal aid. Because when a workplace is a negative environment, the entire workforce suffers.

Seek Help from a Discrimination Lawyer

So now we get to the bottom of things. Making the right decision in these situations may seem like a double-edged sword. If you speak to a discrimination lawyer about your issues in the workplace and your lawyer believes you have a case worth fighting, you may begin to panic. If your case goes to court, will you lose your job? Or will you have a pay cut? And, most importantly, how will you be able to pay the legal fees? Thankfully, a lawyer is there to help. Most lawyer, including Perry Piñón, don’t charge clients a single penny. They take their payment from the lawsuit money. This can ease the stress and help you feel at ease. Discrimination does not belong in the workplace. Contact the Law Office of Perry Piñón for more legal assistance.