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Disability Discrimination Cases

Disability Discrimination Lawyer in Washington, DC

Fighting for Victims of Disability Discrimination in Northern Virginia & Southern Maryland

If you are qualified and able to do a job, your disability should not factor into whether you are hired or how you are treated. Unfortunately, disabled Americans throughout the country experience discrimination at an alarming rate. Workers with disabilities who are subject to discriminatory treatment have the right to file claims against their employers.

At Pitre & Associates, we are committed to helping victims of disability discrimination seek justice and recover damages. Our Washington, DC, disability discrimination lawyer has over 15 years of experience and has obtained over $1 million in compensation and legal fees. We are known for our emphasis on client satisfaction and unmatched personal service. Our firm is proud to operate at the highest professional standards and handles each claim with the integrity it deserves. When you come to us for help, we will do everything we can to assist you throughout the claims process and secure the best possible result.

Persons with disabilities often bring unique skills and perspectives to the workplace, enhancing diversity and promoting inclusivity. Unfortunately, bias and misinformation can lead to discriminatory practices, making it crucial for affected individuals to seek legal aid promptly. We understand the complexities involved in these issues and offer tailored approaches to meet each client's needs.

Schedule a free initial consultation with our federal disability discrimination lawyers in Washington, DC, by contacting us online or calling (202) 759-6544. Se habla español.

Disability Discrimination During the Hiring Process in Washington, DC

Though some employers are reluctant to hire perfectly qualified workers who happen to have disabilities, it is illegal at the state and federal levels to make hiring decisions based on a candidate’s disability status. Keep in mind that “pregnancy” is considered a disability for purposes of classifying disability. 

You are under no obligation to disclose a disability, but some physical disabilities are obvious. If an interviewer suspects you may have a disability, they could directly ask inappropriate questions or rely on subtler lines of questioning that are designed to confirm the existence of a disability. 

You may be the victim of disability discrimination if a hiring manager asks any of these questions:

  • Do you have a disability?
  • Will you require any reasonable accommodations?
  • Do you receive any government benefits?
  • Do you currently take any medications?
  • Have you ever received treatment for a mental health condition?

The interviewer should exclusively evaluate your qualifications and whether you are a good fit for the position. A hiring manager does have the right to ask whether you will be able to perform certain job responsibilities, particularly if you have an apparent physical disability.

Watch out for situations where a job description includes arbitrary responsibilities that seem designed to exclude people with disabilities. An office job should not generally require a candidate to be able to lift thirty pounds, for example.

If you believe you may have been subject to disability discrimination during a hiring process but are not sure whether you have a claim, we can help. Our Washington, DC, disability discrimination attorney can evaluate what happened and walk you through your legal options.

Understanding the nuances of disability discrimination ensures that affected individuals are prepared to identify less obvious forms of bias. For instance, employers may frame questions in ways that seem innocuous yet serve to sideline those with disabilities. It is crucial to stay informed about your rights and responsibilities during the hiring process to prevent potential disadvantages.

Why Choose Pitre & Associates?

  • Expertise

    Our attorneys bring over 15 years of experience in federal employment law, specializing in complex legal matters like discrimination, wrongful termination, and whistleblower protections. We are committed to staying at the forefront of legal developments to provide the most effective strategies for our clients.

  • Results

    Our attorneys have successfully negotiated over 8 million dollars in compensatory awards and attorney fees for clients. We’ve also prevented the removal and/or suspension of several federal employees, demonstrating our ability to achieve favorable outcomes. See our News and Case Successes for more details.

  • Reputation

    Pitre & Associates, LLC and its attorneys have maintained an impeccable record with no complaints to the DC Bar or negative reports to the Better Business Bureau. Our reputation reflects our commitment to professionalism, ethical standards, and high-quality service for every client.

  • Reliability

    Pitre & Associates, LLC has built a reputation for trust, earning the confidence of nearly every client we represent. Our personalized approach makes clients feel valued, and we take great pride in achieving high levels of satisfaction by focusing on their unique needs and providing exceptional service.

Understanding Disability Discrimination in the Workplace

Your employer cannot treat you differently because you have a physical or mental disability. This means they cannot pay you less, deny you promotions, give you unfavorable assignments, or otherwise exclude or mistreat you because of your disability status. The law also protects you from hostile work environments, so you do not have to put up with situations where your boss or peers make derogatory comments about your disability.

If you have a disability, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations. A reasonable accommodation is an adjustment made by your employer that allows you to better perform your job responsibilities. By law, employers must consider all reasonable accommodation requests and cannot deny them outright.

Workplace discrimination against individuals with disabilities can take various forms, from overt acts to more covert policies that indirectly lead to inequality. Employers must foster an inclusive environment by implementing training programs that promote understanding and respect for all employees. Initiatives like these not only support compliance with laws but also enhance overall workplace morale and productivity.

The Importance of an Inclusive Workplace in DC

Washington, DC, as a hub for federal and private sectors, presents a unique opportunity to lead by example in creating inclusive workplaces for individuals with disabilities. Many local organizations and advocacy groups collaborate to raise awareness and promote disability inclusivity. By adopting inclusive policies, organizations not only comply with the law but also improve employee retention and satisfaction, fostering a more productive work environment for all. Our firm works closely with clients to advocate for environments that honor and leverage diverse talents, ensuring inclusive practices are more than just a legal obligation but a core company value.

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