Disability discrimination can create significant barriers to employment, preventing qualified individuals from securing jobs, advancing in their careers, or receiving reasonable accommodations.
As a Worcester disability discrimination lawyer, we help employees hold employers accountable when they violate disability rights laws. At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we believe that all employees deserve fair treatment in the workplace.
Since opening in 2022, our firm has fought for workers facing discrimination and retaliation. If you have been denied accommodations, wrongfully terminated, or treated unfairly due to a disability, you may have legal options.
A Worcester employment discrimination lawyer from our team can assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
Understanding Disability Discrimination in the Workplace
Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats a qualified employee unfairly because of a physical or mental impairment. Both federal and Massachusetts laws protect workers from discrimination based on disability.
Common Forms of Disability Discrimination
- Failure to provide reasonable accommodations: Employers must make reasonable adjustments, such as modified work schedules or assistive technology, unless it creates undue hardship.
- Wrongful termination: Firing an employee due to a disability or medical condition is illegal.
- Refusal to hire or promote: Employers cannot deny job opportunities based on an individual’s disability.
- Harassment or hostile work environment: Employees should not face ridicule, isolation, or mistreatment due to their disability.
- Retaliation for requesting accommodations: Workers have the right to request accommodations without fear of termination or demotion.
If you have experienced any of these issues, a Worcester labor and employment lawyer can help you take legal action.
For a free legal consultation with a disability discrimination lawyer serving Worcester, call (860) 999-9394
Legal Protections for Disabled Employees in Worcester
Employees in Worcester are protected under both federal and state laws. These laws ensure that workers with disabilities have equal employment opportunities and access to necessary accommodations.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A federal law that prohibits disability discrimination in workplaces with 15 or more employees
- Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act (Chapter 151B): State law protecting workers in businesses with six or more employees
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Allows eligible employees to take medical leave without retaliation
Employers must comply with these laws by providing reasonable accommodations and ensuring a discrimination-free workplace. If they fail to do so, a Worcester disability discrimination attorney can help you file a claim.
Worcester Disability Discrimination Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
How to Prove Disability Discrimination
Proving workplace discrimination can be challenging, but there are key pieces of evidence that can support your claim.
- Employment records: Documentation of hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and promotions can show patterns of discrimination.
- Accommodation requests: Written requests and employer responses can demonstrate whether accommodations were denied or ignored.
- Emails and communications: Any messages that contain discriminatory language or indicate bias can serve as evidence.
- Witness testimony: Statements from coworkers or supervisors can support claims of unfair treatment.
A disability discrimination attorney in Worcester, MA can help you gather and present this evidence to strengthen your case.
Click to contact our Worcester Employment Discrimination Lawyers today
What to Do if You Experience Disability Discrimination
If you believe your employer has discriminated against you due to a disability, taking the following steps can strengthen your case:
- Document the discrimination: Keep records of incidents, emails, and communications related to the mistreatment.
- Request accommodations in writing: If your employer denies accommodations, a written request can serve as evidence.
- Report the issue internally: File a complaint with your employer’s human resources department if possible.
- Consult a lawyer: An experienced disability discrimination lawyer in Worcester, MA can help you determine your legal options.
In Massachusetts, employees have 300 days from the date of discrimination to file a claim with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). Acting quickly is essential to preserving your rights.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Filing a Disability Discrimination Lawsuit
If internal complaints and administrative claims do not resolve the issue, employees may file a lawsuit. A successful claim can result in:
- Reinstatement to a former position
- Back pay and lost wages
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Legal fees and court costs
Employers who violate disability rights laws may face financial penalties and be required to implement corrective measures. As a Worcester disability discrimination lawyer, we fight to ensure that our clients receive the justice they deserve.
The Impact of Disability Discrimination on Employees
Workplace discrimination can have long-term consequences on an employee’s career, financial stability, and emotional well-being. Employees who are denied promotions or accommodations may struggle to advance in their careers, limiting their earning potential. Others may face stress, anxiety, or depression due to mistreatment or workplace hostility.
Beyond the personal toll, disability discrimination often affects an employee’s ability to provide for their family. Many workers rely on their income and benefits for medical treatments, therapy, and everyday expenses.
When an employer violates disability rights laws, they not only harm individual employees but also create a workplace culture that discourages inclusivity and fairness.
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we recognize the importance of fighting back against discrimination. Employees deserve workplaces that treat them with dignity and respect, and we are committed to helping our clients achieve justice.
How a Worcester Disability Discrimination Lawyer Can Help
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees facing disability discrimination. We understand how challenging it can be to advocate for yourself in the workplace, especially when dealing with an unsupportive employer. Our legal team works closely with clients to build strong cases, file administrative claims, and pursue litigation when necessary.
Our firm provides personalized legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation. Whether you are facing wrongful termination, denial of accommodations, or retaliation for asserting your rights, we are here to help.
We have extensive experience handling disability discrimination claims and are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients.
If you have faced workplace discrimination due to a disability, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. Our firm is committed to ensuring that workers receive the accommodations, job security, and fair treatment they deserve.
Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form