Living with a disability or a chronic medical condition is already challenging enough without having to worry about how your employer treats you. Whether your condition is physical or mental, a Los Angeles discrimination lawyer from Sparrow Law Group can help. We represent employees across Southern California who have been treated unfairly under both the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Our goal is to ensure that qualified workers are treated with the respect they deserve.
Why Choose Us at Sparrow Law Group?
Choosing the right legal team can make a significant difference when you are fighting for your professional reputation. At Sparrow Law Group, we pride ourselves on being approachable, transparent, and relentless. Here is why clients trust our team:
- Focused employment law representation: We handle complex disputes involving discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination.
- Strategic and practical guidance: We help our clients understand their legal options and develop a clear plan forward.
- Client-centered approach: We prioritize communication and work closely with our clients to protect their rights and professional reputation.
Examples of Disability Discrimination in the Workplace
Disability discrimination does not always look like a manager saying something cruel to your face. In many cases, it is much more subtle. Legally, discrimination occurs when an employer treats you unfavorably because of a real or even a perceived disability. Common examples include:
- Rescinding a job offer after learning about a chronic illness or learning disability
- Denying a promotion based on assumptions that your condition will limit your performance
- Excluding you from meetings or harassing you with inappropriate comments about your health
- Punishing you for taking legally protected medical leave
Disabilities may include physical conditions, chronic illnesses, mental health conditions, learning disabilities, or temporary impairments, such as complications from surgery or a high-risk pregnancy, that limit major life activities.
What Reasonable Accommodations Should You Expect?
Under California law, employers must provide reasonable accommodations to help you perform your essential job duties, unless it causes the company extreme undue hardship. This starts with an interactive process where your boss must sit down and talk with you to find a solution. Common accommodations may include:
- Remote work arrangements or modified work schedules
- Ergonomic equipment, assistive technology, or accessible workspaces
- Adjusted job duties or temporary reassignment to a vacant position
- Additional breaks for medication, rest, or medical appointments
Ignoring accommodation requests or refusing to discuss options may violate the law.
Can an Employer Fire Me If I Request a Disability Accommodation in California?
The short answer is no, but that does not stop some employers from trying to hide their motives. An employer cannot legally fire you for asserting your rights. However, they often try to claim the termination was actually about performance issues or restructuring.
To fight back, evidence is everything. We look for pretext, which is proof that their excuse is a lie. This often involves gathering internal emails and text messages, performance reviews that were positive until you requested help, and statements from witnesses who saw how you were treated.
Call an Experienced Los Angeles Disability Discrimination Attorney Today
You should not have to navigate the legal system on your own while managing your health. If your employer has treated you unfairly, our team at Sparrow Law Group is here to help you evaluate your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.