If your employer has treated you unfairly because of a disability, you do not have to accept it. Disability discrimination is illegal under both Connecticut and federal law, and all employees have rights.
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, our social justice–motivated firm stands up for workers who have faced unfair treatment due to their disabilities.
A Hartford employment discrimination lawyer from our firm will help you understand your rights and take action against your employer if they have violated the law.
If you believe you have been discriminated against at work, a Hartford disability discrimination lawyer from our team can review your case and fight for justice. Call us today for a free consultation.
What Is Disability Discrimination in the Workplace?
Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly because of a physical or mental disability. The law requires employers to provide equal opportunities and reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities unless doing so would create an undue hardship for the company.
Disability discrimination can take many forms, including:
- Refusing to hire a qualified candidate because of a disability
- Denying reasonable accommodations that would allow an employee to perform their job
- Firing or demoting an employee due to a disability
- Harassing or retaliating against an employee for requesting accommodations or asserting their rights
If you have experienced any of these issues, our Hartford labor and employment lawyers will help you take legal action. You can learn how we can support you during a free consultation with our team members.
For a free legal consultation with a disability discrimination lawyer serving Hartford, call (860) 999-9394
What Laws Protect Employees from Disability Discrimination?
Employees in Connecticut are protected by federal and state laws, including:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): This federal law prohibits disability discrimination and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations.
- The Rehabilitation Act of 1973: This law protects federal employees and employees of companies that receive federal funding.
- The Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA): This state law provides broader protections than the ADA and applies to smaller employers that may not be covered under federal law.
If you believe your employer has violated these laws, a disability discrimination attorney in Hartford, CT, from our firm can review your situation and advise how we can file a claim on your behalf.
Hartford Disability Discrimination Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
What Are Reasonable Accommodations?
Under the law, employers must provide reasonable accommodations to help employees with disabilities perform their jobs. Examples of reasonable accommodations include:
- Modifying work schedules
- Providing assistive technology or specialized equipment
- Making the workplace more accessible
- Allowing remote work when possible
If your employer will not provide you with reasonable accommodations, our firm will help you fight back.
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How Our Hartford Workplace Disability Discrimination Attorneys Can Help
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we believe in holding corporations accountable when they violate employees’ rights. Our firm offers legal representation for workers facing discrimination, and we work on contingency—meaning you don’t pay us for our services unless we win your case.
When you hire us to represent you, we will:
- Review your case and determine if you have a valid claim
- Gather evidence to prove discrimination
- File a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO)
- Negotiate with your employer for a fair resolution
- Take your case to court if necessary
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What You Can Do if You Are Facing Disability Discrimination
If you believe you have been discriminated against at work due to a disability, you should:
- Document everything: Keep records of discriminatory actions, emails, performance reviews, and any conversations that suggest bias.
- Report the discrimination: File a complaint with your HR department or supervisor if you feel safe doing so.
- Consult an attorney: Our disability discrimination lawyer in Hartford, CT, can help you understand your rights and take the next steps.
Can an Employer Fire You for Filing a Discrimination Complaint?
It is illegal for an employer to fire you for filing a discrimination complaint. This is called retaliation, and state and federal laws protect employees from being punished for standing up for their rights.
If your employer fires, demotes, harasses, or otherwise mistreats you after you report disability discrimination, they are breaking the law. If you were wrongfully terminated after reporting discrimination, you may have a retaliation claim.
Our Hartford workplace retaliation lawyers will take legal action to hold your employer accountable and seek compensation for lost wages and other damages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disability Discrimination
Understanding your rights as an employee with a disability can be challenging. Many workers are unsure of what qualifies as discrimination, how to take legal action, and what protections exist under the law.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about disability discrimination and how a lawyer can help.
How Long Do I Have to File a Disability Discrimination Claim?
Federal and state laws have different deadlines for filing claims. In most cases, you must file an EEOC complaint within 180 days, but Connecticut state law may allow for more time. We will file your claim on time.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Disability Discrimination Case?
If you win your case, you may be able to recover lost wages, benefits, emotional distress damages, and attorney fees. In some cases, you may also be reinstated to your job.
What Should I Do if My Employer Denies My Request for a Reasonable Accommodation?
If your employer refuses to provide a reasonable accommodation for your disability, you have legal options. Under state and federal laws, employers must engage in an interactive process to find a reasonable solution that allows you to perform your job.
Here’s what you should do if your accommodation request is denied:
- Ask for a written explanation for the refusal: Request a written response from your employer detailing why the accommodation was denied.
- Provide additional medical documentation: If your employer questions your need for the accommodation, more medical evidence may help.
- Consult the company‘s Human Resources department: If possible, try to resolve the issue through your company’s human resources department.
- Speak with a lawyer: The attorneys at our firm will review your situation to determine if your employer’s refusal was unlawful and file a complaint on your behalf.
Contact a Hartford Disability Discrimination Lawyer Today
If you have experienced disability discrimination at work, you have legal options, and we are ready to review them with you. You are not alone in your fight for fair treatment.
Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard is committed to fighting for workers’ rights. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our Hartford disability discrimination lawyer seek justice for you.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form