Employees with physical or mental disabilities have the right to work in an environment free from bias and discrimination. In Atlantic County, many workers face unlawful treatment because of a disability, from denial of reasonable accommodations to outright termination. If you’ve been mistreated at work due to your disability or perceived disability, you may be entitled to legal protection and compensation.
What Is Disability Discrimination?
Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats an individual unfavorably due to a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes:
- Failing to hire qualified applicants because of a disability
- Refusing reasonable accommodations, such as modified schedules or equipment
- Demoting, harassing, or firing an employee due to their condition
- Retaliating against someone who requests accommodations
Who Is Protected?
Employees with a wide range of conditions may qualify for protection under the law, including mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, hearing or vision impairments, learning disabilities, mental health conditions, and more. You may also be protected if your employer perceives you to have a disability, even if you do not.
Legal Protections in New Jersey
Several state and federal laws safeguard the rights of workers with disabilities:
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) – Prohibits discrimination based on physical or mental disability and requires reasonable accommodations
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – A federal law offering similar protections nationwide
Employers must engage in a good faith interactive process to determine appropriate accommodations and may only deny them if they impose an undue hardship.
Recognizing Disability Discrimination
Common signs include:
- Sudden disciplinary action after disclosing a medical condition
- Denial of tools or schedule adjustments that would allow you to work effectively
- Being left out of training or advancement opportunities
- Inappropriate questions about your health or abilities
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is a trusted employment law firm advocating for workers throughout Atlantic County. Their attorneys understand the nuances of disability discrimination cases and are dedicated to ensuring equal treatment and access in the workplace.
They’ll help you assert your rights, request accommodations, and pursue justice if you’ve been mistreated. Whether through negotiation or courtroom litigation, they’ll work to hold employers accountable.
If you’re being discriminated against or denied accommodations, Atlantic County Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys are ready to support you.
What You May Recover
- Reinstatement or role modifications
- Back pay and benefits
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Punitive damages for willful violations
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
You deserve to work without barriers. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation and protect your rights as an employee in Atlantic County.