Have you ever been discriminated against at work because of your age? If so, you may have experienced the effects of age discrimination in the workplace.
Aging-related workplace discrimination significantly impacts the working population under federal law. If you have been a victim of unlawful age discrimination, you are entitled to pursue legal action to recover damages and pay back wages. Our age discrimination lawyers at Levine & Blit will help put an end to unfair practices by seeking justice for those who have suffered. Contact us today if you need a lawyer for help with employment issues.
What Is Age Discrimination?
Age discrimination occurs when people are mistreated because of their age. It happens more often than many people realize. It’s easy to see why age discrimination happens – older employees tend to be seen as less productive, too expensive, and not worth investing in so they are more likely than younger people to face layoffs. Older workers are far likelier to lose their jobs than younger ones, even if they’re better qualified.
What Does Age Discrimination Look Like?
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees over 40 years old from being discriminated against based on their age. The ADEA’s protections apply to both employees and job applicants. It is unlawful for an employer to make employment decisions based on your age.
The following examples may be indicative of age-based discrimination:
- Being denied a promotion or pay raise because you are too old.
- Having your job responsibilities changed without notice or explanation.
- Employers hiring and promoting younger employees.
- Being fired or laid off despite superior performance.
- Being passed over for training opportunities and promotions.
- Being given menial tasks instead of assignments requiring senior skills.
Even younger workers may be subject to illegal age discrimination and some states have laws explicitly protecting them.
How Often Does Age Discrimination Happen in the Workplace?
Age-based employment discrimination has become increasingly common in recent decades. More and more companies are using age as a factor in hiring, firing, and promoting. Companies cite productivity concerns and lack of experience to justify denying older workers new roles and advancement opportunities.
In fact, according to an American Association of Retired People (AARP) survey, nearly one in four workers aged 45 and older have experienced negative age-related remarks from supervisors or coworkers.
Employers discriminate against older workers because they believe the older worker will not perform well. Employees discriminated against due to their age may feel helpless and frustrated. They may suffer from stress, anxiety, depression, and physical ailments.
In another study by Hiscox Ageism, only 40% filed a charge or complaint about age discrimination at work. 54% of respondents felt that filing a report can create a hostile work environment and make them targets for harassment. And 24% of respondents didn’t file a charge or complaint because of a lack of knowledge and understanding about the law. This leaves many victims feeling isolated and alone.
To prove age discrimination or file an age discrimination claim, it is necessary to speak with a qualified attorney who understands age discrimination laws. They can file a report with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), help you pursue legal action against your employer, and provide support throughout the process.
Get Your Rights Protected by an Age Discrimination Attorney
If you are over 40 and have experienced age discrimination at work, it’s time to act. Don’t let your rights go unaddressed. With an age discrimination lawyer from Levine & Blit on your side, we can advocate for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Call us now at (212) 967-3000 to learn more about what we can do to protect your rights.