Being treated unfairly in your place of work is never a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, it is something that many workers face. Often the mistreatment arises in the form of discrimination. Whether it is discrimination over age, gender, race, sexuality, or otherwise, it is not something that anyone should have to tolerate. However, for some people, the discrimination begins even before they find employment.
In a recent case, a California-based recruitment company has been accused of violating the Immigration and Nationality Act by discriminating against non-U.S. citizens. It emerged that staff within the company had requested specific documents from non-US citizens, despite not requiring the same from U.S. citizens. However, this breaches an aspect of the aforementioned Act which states additional documents cannot be requested of work-authorized employees simply based on their national origin or citizenship status.
The Department of Justice determined that the company had discriminated against the employees in question. As a result, the company is expected to pay $230,000 of civil penalties. It also has to create a compensatory fund of $35,000 to assist those who may have suffered a loss of wages as a result of the company’s actions.
Other residents of California can learn from this example. Discrimination is a serious matter and is deeply unpleasant to experience Nevertheless, a discrimination attorney can assist you if you find yourself needing to challenge someone for inappropriate behavior, or if you simply wish to know your rights.
eNews Park Forest, “Justice Department Settles Immigration-Related Discrimination Claim Against Staffing Agency,” Aug. 15, 2014
Your job is more than just a source of income. It is a major part of your lifestyle. If you have been the victim of wrongful termination, wrongful demotion or any kind of discriminatory business practices, it is time to take action and contact a Ventura employment law attorney that can help. Attorney Matthew A. Kaufman and the team at The Kaufman Law Firm bring experience and a vast arsenal of legal resources to help clients recover the money they deserve.
To learn more, contact our California law office today and schedule an initial evaluation to discuss your case.