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Los Angeles National Origin Discrimination Lawyer

If you believe you have been a victim of national origin discrimination, do not wait to seek help. Contact our experienced Los Angeles employment discrimination attorneys at Aegis Law Firm for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options, providing the guidance and support you need to pursue justice. 

What is National Origin Discrimination?

National origin discrimination occurs when an employer treats an individual unfairly because of their nationality, ethnicity, accent, or cultural heritage. This type of discrimination can manifest in various forms, including:

  • Hiring and Promotion Bias: Denying someone a job, promotion, or pay raise based on their ethnic background or national origin.
  • Language and Accent Discrimination: Requiring employees to speak only English at all times without a legitimate business need or penalizing someone because of their accent.
  • Job Segregation: Assigning workers of specific nationalities to particular jobs or limiting their opportunities based on stereotypes.
  • Harassment: Subjecting individuals to offensive comments, jokes, or slurs about their nationality or cultural background, creating a hostile work environment.

Federal and state laws protect employees from national origin discrimination in any aspect of employment, including hiring, job assignments, training, promotions, and layoffs.

Understanding Your Rights Under Anti-Discrimination Laws

In California, employees are protected from national origin discrimination under both state and federal laws, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These laws prohibit employers from making employment decisions based on an employee’s national origin, ethnicity, accent, or cultural background. 

Employees have the right to fair treatment in hiring, pay, promotions, and other employment terms, and are protected from workplace harassment, such as offensive comments or discriminatory practices based on their national origin. California also requires that any “English-only” language policies be strictly job-related, ensuring employees are free from unnecessary language restrictions.

Examples of National Origin Discrimination in the Workplace

National origin discrimination takes many forms. Here are some common examples seen in the workplace:

  • Refusal to Hire Based on Accent or Ethnicity: Employers may illegally refuse to hire qualified candidates due to accents or assumptions about their cultural background.
  • English-Only Policies: Employers may enforce “English-only” rules that restrict employees from speaking their native language, even on breaks. Unless there is a valid business reason for such a rule, this restriction may be discriminatory.
  • Harassment and Hostile Work Environment: Persistent jokes, slurs, or offensive comments about one’s nationality or culture can create a hostile work environment, violating an employee’s rights.
  • Biased Job Assignments or Promotions: National origin discrimination can limit individuals to lower-paying roles or prevent promotions, often based on stereotypes or assumptions.

If you have experienced any of these forms of discrimination, you have the right to seek justice. Contact our national origin discrimination lawyers in Los Angeles today.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint in Los Angeles

If you believe you have experienced national origin discrimination in Los Angeles, you can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). Here’s how to proceed:

File a Pre-Complaint Inquiry

Begin by submitting a Pre-Complaint Inquiry to the CRD. This can be done online through the California Civil Rights System (CCRS) by creating an account with a valid email address and phone number. If you need assistance, call the CRD at (800) 884-1684. 

Participate in the Intake Interview

After submitting the inquiry, a CRD representative will contact you to conduct an intake interview. They will assess the details to determine if your case falls under the CRD’s jurisdiction and if a formal complaint can be accepted for investigation.

File the Formal Complaint

If your case is accepted, the CRD will prepare a formal complaint for your signature. Once signed, it will be sent to the person or entity you believe discriminated against you. This initiates the official investigation process.

Understand the Investigation Process

The CRD will investigate the complaint by reviewing responses and evidence from both parties. They may attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation or other means. If the investigation finds sufficient evidence of national origin discrimination, the CRD may take further action, which could include filing a lawsuit on your behalf.

Requesting a Right to Sue Notice

The CRD may issue you a “right-to-sue” notice, or you may need to request one before you can file a lawsuit. Typically, you can request this notice either at the time of filing your complaint or at any point during the CRD investigation.

Obtaining a Right to Sue notice offers several advantages:

  • Control Over Your Case: With a Right to Sue notice, you have the freedom to choose your attorney, file a lawsuit, and control the legal strategy of your case.
  • Expedited Timeline: The CRD’s investigation process can take time. If you are ready to proceed in court and want to avoid delays, a Right to Sue allows you to start legal proceedings immediately.
  • Independent Resolution: If you believe you have strong evidence and are ready to go to court, having your own attorney manage your case might result in a more direct path to a resolution or settlement.

Be Aware of Filing Deadlines

For employment-related cases, you must submit the intake form within three years of the last discriminatory act. For most other cases, the deadline is one year. Timely filing is crucial to preserve your rights. 

How Can a Los Angeles National Origin Discrimination Attorney Help?

A Los Angeles National Origin Discrimination Attorney can provide comprehensive legal support to help you navigate the process of filing and pursuing a claim. Here are some key ways they can assist:

Case Evaluation and Legal Guidance

An attorney begins by reviewing your case, helping you understand your rights under federal and state law. They will provide clear, personalized advice on the strength of your case and the next steps you should take. This initial guidance helps you make informed decisions about how to proceed with your claim.

Documenting and Gathering Evidence

Building a strong national origin discrimination case requires thorough documentation. A lawyer will help gather and organize evidence, including any emails, performance reviews, job postings, and witness statements that support your claim. They will work to establish a pattern of discrimination that strengthens your case.

Filing a Complaint with the EEOC or State Agencies

Filing a formal complaint with the CRD or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is required before pursuing a lawsuit. An attorney will guide you through the filing process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time. They will also represent you during any investigations or mediation sessions.

Negotiating Settlements

Many employers prefer to settle discrimination cases out of court to avoid public exposure and litigation costs. An attorney will negotiate directly with your employer or their legal team to pursue a fair settlement that compensates you for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. They will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Representing You in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. 

Contact Aegis Law Today

Our discrimination attorneys in Los Angeles have extensive experience in litigating National Origin Discrimination cases, and we are committed to representing you passionately and effectively. Call (949) 379-6250 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation today.