Legal protections under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) prohibit employers in Egg Harbor Township from discriminating based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. These protections extend to hiring, firing, compensation, promotions, and the overall terms and conditions of employment.
What the Law Covers
The LAD protects individuals from employment decisions based on actual or perceived:
- Heterosexuality – Attraction to a different gender
- Homosexuality – Attraction to the same gender
- Bisexuality – Attraction to both genders
- Transgender status – A gender identity or expression that differs from the sex assigned at birth
- Gender identity or expression – Including outward presentation such as appearance, mannerisms, and behavior
These protections apply regardless of how someone identifies or how others perceive them. The law also bars retaliation against individuals who file complaints or assist in investigations.
Enforcing Your Rights
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) is responsible for enforcing these legal standards. Employers may not:
- Refuse to hire based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Terminate employment for discriminatory reasons
- Allow or create a hostile work environment
- Provide unequal pay or benefits
- Apply different standards or expectations due to bias
- Discriminate based on incorrect assumptions about someone’s orientation
New Jersey courts have consistently ruled in favor of employees subjected to discrimination rooted in perception, such as assumptions about a person’s sexuality—highlighting the scope and strength of the LAD.
Legal Options for Victims in Egg Harbor Township
Workers in Egg Harbor Township have two paths to pursue justice:
- File a complaint with the DCR within 180 days of the last discriminatory event
- File a lawsuit in New Jersey Superior Court within two years of the violation
Both options can result in remedies like reinstatement, back pay, damages for emotional distress, and changes to employer policies.
Speak with a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer
If your employer has treated you unfairly due to your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, the attorneys at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC can help. Our legal team has extensive experience navigating LAD claims and can assist with investigation, case strategy, and representation in negotiations or court proceedings.
Contact us today to discuss your rights and potential legal claims. We represent employees across Egg Harbor Township and throughout New Jersey.