Los Angeles · Representing California employees

Workplace Discrimination

California employees are protected from discrimination based on race, sex, disability, pregnancy, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other protected traits.

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Understanding the issue

Employment discrimination concerns decisions connected to a legally protected characteristic, such as race, disability, sex, religion, or age 40 and over. California FEHA discrimination provisions generally cover employers with at least five employees; other rules and exceptions may matter.

Hiring, pay, promotion, discipline, and termination can all warrant review. Unfair treatment alone does not establish unlawful discrimination. The connection between the treatment and the protected characteristic is central.

What we review

  • The decision, date, and people involved
  • Comments or policies related to the protected characteristic
  • Treatment of coworkers in comparable roles and circumstances

What to prepare

  • Job applications, promotion notices, or disciplinary documents
  • Relevant emails and messages
  • Pay records, job descriptions, and names of potential witnesses

Frequently asked questions

Can a rejected job applicant request a review?

Yes. Keep the job posting, application, interview notes, and rejection message so the hiring process can be discussed.

Do I need a coworker’s confidential personnel file?

No. Describe comparisons you personally observed. Do not access private files without authorization.

Consultation and timing

Filing deadlines depend on the claim and procedure. Tell us about an approaching deadline, agency notice, or signature request when contacting us. Requesting a consultation does not extend a deadline or establish an attorney-client relationship.

This page provides general information, not advice for a specific case or a guarantee of an outcome.

Official resources

Related practice areas

Tell us what happened.

Discuss the facts and possible next steps in a free initial consultation.

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3580 Wilshire Blvd., 17th Floor — Los Angeles, California 90010