Disabled individuals have the right to work in an environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. There are both state and federal laws in place that protect the rights and interests of those with a disability, and violations of these laws can lead to serious legal consequences. If you have a disability, it is in your interests to know about your rights in the workplace.
Disability discrimination is reprehensible and against the law. If you believe you are a victim of this type of treatment, you do not have to suffer in silence. You have the right to pursue legal action against your employer in the form of a civil claim. While you may feel confused, overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next, there is help available to you.
Do you know your rights?
A physical disability does not mean that you are unable to hold gainful employment and add value to a team of employees. You have the right to work and support yourself, and you also have the right to expect that your employer will provide any reasonable accommodations you may need. The following facts may be useful to you as you learn more about your right to work without fear of discrimination or mistreatment of any kind:
- Disability discrimination can occur when an employer treats a worker unfavorably at any point in the employment process because of a disability.
- Your employer has to provide reasonable accommodations for disabled workers unless it will cause significant hardship or financial loss.
- It is also against the law for an employer to harass an employee because of his or her disability.
- There are limits to the questions that employers can ask an applicant about his or her disability during the application process and interview.
You may not be sure about your rights, or you may not be certain that what you experienced counts as disability discrimination. If you have questions or concerns, it may be helpful to speak with your Florida employer regarding your legal options.
What should you do?
Reaching out for guidance is an important step if you experienced disability discrimination in the workplace. An attorney who understands employment law can provide invaluable assistance as you seek to understand your legal options and help you move forward with filing a legal claim. The civil justice system offers you an opportunity to seek compensation because of what you experienced.
