In a personal injury case, it's usually easy to prove damages, but proving unfair workplace practices is harder. An illegal question during the hiring process doesn't leave a mark, and workplace harassment doesn't usually result in a diagnosis and a medical bill. But discrimination, illegal practices, and hostile working conditions can be just as hard on your mental health and your wallet as any personal injury. If you're facing a breach of employment law in your workplace, you should know your rights and your options.

Your Rights

Every employer is legally required to meet certain standards in their conduct toward employees. Under federal employment law, you have the right to a safe, healthy workplace, including carefully maintained safety equipment and consistently followed safety procedures where applicable.

Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sexuality, religion, or marital status is illegal both during the hiring process and when assigning promotions and raises. You have the right to a workplace free of sexual harassment and other behaviors, which create a hostile work environment.

Finally, you are entitled to report violations of your rights and any other laws without retaliation from your employer. If you’re facing discriminatory, hostile, or unsafe conditions at work (especially if your employer has been notified and has failed to correct the problem), contact a lawyer.

Your Options

When you first encounter problematic conditions at work, approach your supervisor, boss, or HR for a solution to the problem. Management can't fix a problem if they aren't aware it exists. However, if your employer is aware of the situation and doesn't respond appropriately, and if you have exhausted your options within the company, you have options outside.

An attorney with experience in employment law can help you decide your next steps, whether this means reporting the company to a regulatory body, attempting further negotiations, or starting the process of a lawsuit. If you're facing dangerous or discriminatory conditions at work, contact an attorney today.

The Law Offices of Katzman, Logan, Halper and Bennett, LPA provides legal advice and representation in Cincinnati, OH. The skilled attorneys can help you with divorce and family law, estate planning, personal injury, and employment law. Call them at (513) 793-4400, or visit the website for more information.