It is illegal for an employer to discriminate on the basis of age. Federal acts such as the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protect workers from discriminatory practices based solely on their age. If you were wrongfully terminated or discriminated against based on your age, you need to consult with an attorney.
At Shelton Law Practice, LLC, we represent employees who have experienced age discrimination in the workplace. Our firm proudly serves clients in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We fight to protect the rights of all workers including federal employees. If you have experienced age discrimination in the workplace, contact our office at (404) 865-3771 to schedule an initial consultation.
What Is the Age Discrimination in Employment Act?
Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), employers are generally prohibited from taking adverse employment actions against employees on the basis of their age. Because the ADEA only applies to employees who are forty years of age or older, not everyone is legally protected against age discrimination in the workplace.
If you are forty or older, you may have been subjected to age discrimination under the ADEA if your employer has:
- Treated you and other workers who are forty or older more favorably than younger workers;
- Made offensive comments to you concerning your age;
- Terminated your employment on the basis of your age;
- Replaced you with a younger worker; or
- Taken other employment actions against you because of your age.
If you believe you have been the victim of age discrimination, you need to know your legal options. Please contact our firm to learn more.
What to Know About Age Discrimination in Georgia
Age discrimination can take many forms. You might have a legal claim whether you were demoted, denied a position, or fired because you are over the age of 40. It can be challenging to prove age discrimination without the help of a qualified attorney. Employers will often claim other reasons for their actions unrelated to your age. Therefore, it is essential to gather as much information and evidence as you can to prove your case.
An age discrimination lawyer can review your case and help determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. Many times it comes down to the circumstances of your case and the documents that are available to show the mistreatment you experienced at your workplace.
What to Do If You Experience Retaliation for Reporting Age Discrimination
In addition to it being unlawful for an employer to discriminate against you on the basis of age, it is also illegal for them to retaliate against you for reporting the discrimination. If your employer retaliates against you for reporting any form of discrimination, you may have a legal claim.
Examples of illegal retaliation include:
- Demotion
- Pay reduction
- Withholding wages
- Termination of employment
- Failing to hire or promote
- Harassment
- Other forms of abuse
If you reported discriminatory conduct and experienced adverse consequences from your employer, you need to speak to a lawyer. Depending on the situation, you might be entitled to damages based on illegal retaliation by your employer.
Filing a Claim Based on Age Discrimination or Retaliation
In most cases, you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim against an employer for discrimination or retaliation. Claims may need to be reported in as little as 45 to 180 days in some cases. It is always in your best interest to discuss your case with an attorney as early in the process as possible.
Were You the Victim of Employment-Related Age Discrimination?
Were you the victim of employment-related age discrimination in Atlanta or the surrounding area? Contact our office at (404) 865-3771 to request a case consultation.
Our firm will help guide you through the legal process including how to file a claim or pursue a lawsuit against an employer. Remember you only have a short amount of time to file a case, therefore you need to act fast. Call now to speak directly with an age discrimination lawyer in Georgia.
