Understanding Age Discrimination Act in California Employment Law

Age Discrimination In The Workplace Insights from Los Angeles Labor Lawyers

As an employee in California, it is important to be aware of your rights in the workplace, including protections against age discrimination. In this article, we will discuss the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) as it relates to California employment law, and provide insights from experienced Los Angeles labor lawyers.

What is the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)?

The ADEA is a federal labor law that prohibits age discrimination against individuals who are 40 years of age or older in employment. This labor law applies to employers with 20 or more employees and protects individuals from discrimination in all aspects of labor and employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, and compensation.

In the state of California, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) also prohibits age discrimination in employment and provides broader protections than the ADEA. The FEHA applies to businesses with five or more employees and covers all individuals regardless of their age.

What are some examples of age discrimination in the workplace?

Age discrimination can take many forms, and may include:

• Refusing to hire or consider an individual for a promotion because of their age

• Demoting an individual or giving them less favorable job duties because of their age

• Paying an individual less because of their age

• Requiring an individual to retire because of their age

• Making negative comments about an individual's age

What are the biggest settlements for age discrimination cases in California?

Over the years, there have been several high-profile age discrimination cases in California. Some of the biggest settlements include:

• $5.5 million settlement in a case against Farmers Insurance for age discrimination and harassment.

• $2.2 million settlement in a case against the city of Los Angeles for age discrimination and retaliation.

• $1.7 million settlement in a case against the University of California, Davis for age discrimination and retaliation.

How can a Los Angeles labor lawyer help with an age discrimination case?

If you feel that you have been the victim of age discrimination in the workplace, it is important to speak with an experienced Los Angeles labor lawyer. An employment lawyer can help you understand your rights, investigate your claim, and take legal action on your behalf.

California Age Discrimination Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if I believe I have been the victim of age discrimination at work?

A: You should document the discriminatory behavior and report it to your employer. If your employer fails to take action, you should speak with a Los Angeles labor lawyer.

Q: Can I be fired for filing an age discrimination claim?

A: No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing an age discrimination claim.

Q: How long do I have to file an age discrimination claim in California?

A: In California, you generally have one year from the date of the discriminatory act to file a claim with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

Age discrimination against employees in California is a serious issue and can have a significant impact on an individual's career and financial well-being. If you believe you have been the victim of age discrimination, it is important to speak with an experienced Los Angeles labor lawyer who can help protect your rights and seek justice on your behalf.