Representing Private Sector And Government Employees

Virginia is an at-will employment state, but that does not mean employees are without rights. State and federal laws prohibit employers from discriminating against employees in any part of the employment process. Employers are also prohibited from retaliatory discharge or taking disciplinary actions against workers who complain about discrimination against others. Dickerson & Smith Law Group provides employment law representation to private sector and government or civil service employees. Our attorneys protect the rights of workers in a broad span of employment law cases. To schedule an appointment with our employment law attorneys, please call 757-828-0031 or contact us online.

Discrimination, Overtime And Employment Contracts

We represent private sector employees in matters involving Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and government employees in cases involving the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 (CSRA). Our employment law practice covers issues such as:

• Discrimination based on race, age, sex, religion, national origin and disability
• Sexual harassment and hostile work environment
• Overtime pay and Fair Labor Standards Act issues
• Wrongful termination

Regardless of the type of discrimination you experience, it is important to report it to your employer and follow the company’s grievance procedure. You can then file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or other appropriate agency. We can advise you during the process with your employer and represent you at agency hearings or in court. In addition to discrimination and wage claims, we handle employment contracts, including noncompete agreements. If you need us to review, draft or negotiate an employment contract, we can help. We can also litigate cases involving breach of contract.

Understanding Workplace Discrimination And Your Legal Protections

Several federal laws protect you from unfair treatment at work. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against you because of your race, skin color, religious beliefs, gender or where you come from. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects employees with disabilities and requires employers to make reasonable workplace adjustments so you can perform your job. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) shields workers who are older than 40 from unfair treatment based on their age.

If you believe your employer has discriminated against you, you need to act quickly. Document every incident that supports your claim. Save emails, text messages and any other evidence of discriminatory treatment. Report the discrimination to your human resources department or follow your company’s internal complaint procedures. Federal law requires you to file a charge with the EEOC before you can file a lawsuit in court.

The EEOC investigates your claim and may attempt to resolve the matter through mediation. If they cannot resolve your case, the agency will issue you a “right to sue” letter that allows you to pursue your claim in court. Virginia law imposes strict deadlines for filing discrimination claims, so consulting with an experienced employment law attorney early in the process protects your rights.

Sexual Harassment And Hostile Work Environment Claims

Sexual harassment at work falls into two categories. Quid pro quo harassment happens when a supervisor links your job or benefits to sexual demands. For example, a manager might promise you a promotion in exchange for a date or threaten to fire you if you reject their advances. A hostile work environment harassment a workplace that feels intimidating or offensive because of unwanted sexual behavior. You might experience repeated inappropriate comments about your appearance, unwanted physical contact or coworkers sharing explicit images.

Your employer can be held responsible for harassment that comes from different sources. This includes supervisors who abuse their authority and coworkers who create a hostile environment. In some cases, employers must also address harassment from customers or vendors. The law protects you when you speak up about sexual harassment. Your employer cannot punish you for reporting harassment or helping with an investigation. They cannot fire you, cut your pay, demote you or treat you differently because you filed a complaint.

You must file an EEOC charge within 300 days of the harassment in Virginia. Missing this deadline can cost you the right to pursue your claim. An employment law attorney can help you navigate the complaint process and build a strong case.

Contact Our Employment Law Attorneys To Discuss Your Claim

Whether you face discrimination, sexual harassment or wage violations, Dickerson & Smith Law Group stands ready to protect your rights. Our attorneys understand the challenges employees face when standing up to employers. We handle every aspect of your case, from filing administrative complaints to representing you in court if necessary.

Please call 757-828-0031 or use the online contact form to arrange an appointment.