Are you a victim of age discrimination in the workplace in Phoenix, AZ? If you have been discriminated against in the workplace because of your age, our Phoenix age discrimination lawyers can help protect your rights.
At Houk Employment Attorneys, our legal team has 45 years of combined experience in employment law. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, helping them move forward after being subjected to workplace discrimination.
Contact our law office at (480) 569-2377 to schedule a consultation. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.
How Houk Employment Attorneys Can Help You with an Age Discrimination Claim in Phoenix, AZ
When you hire our award-winning Phoenix workplace discrimination attorneys, you can trust that we will:
- Investigate claims of age discrimination and gather evidence that can bolster your case
- Analyze applicable state and federal laws for age discrimination
- Discuss various settlement options and compensation for damages caused by age discrimination
- Aggressively negotiate fair settlement terms
- Litigate your claim if a settlement is not possible
Our attorneys have top ratings from national organizations, including Super Lawyers. We are also members of prestigious legal organizations, including the National Employment Lawyers Association, the Arizona Employment Lawyers Association, and the American Bar Association’s Labor and Employment Section.
Your best interests are our top priority as we work to obtain a favorable resolution for your case. Call Houk Employment Attorneys to schedule a consultation with one of our Phoenix employment attorneys.
Overview of Age Discrimination Laws in Arizona
The primary law that protects employees from age discrimination is the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). This federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against job applicants or employees based on their age. However, the act only protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older. The Arizona Civil Rights Act also provides protections for workers who are 40 years of age or older.
Common Examples of Age Discrimination in the Workplace
Age discrimination can take many forms. Common examples of employers discriminating against employees based on their age include:
- Targeted layoffs and firings (i.e., laying off employees over 40 years old before other employees)
- Hiring another job applicant based solely on the fact that they are younger than other applicants
- Denying benefits such as health coverage, retirement contributions, or bonuses
- Overlooking older employees for promotions, even if they are qualified
- Making demeaning remarks or jokes about an employee’s age
- Creating a hostile work environment for older employees
- Enacting policies that negatively impact older workers
If you believe you are the victim of age discrimination, contact our law office to discuss your rights.
What Damages Are Available for an Age Discrimination Claim in Phoenix, AZ?
The types of damages you receive for an age discrimination claim depend on the factors of your case. You could receive compensation for economic and non-economic damages.
Examples of damages for a workplace discrimination claim include:
- Lost wages and back pay
- Expenses associated with searching for a new job if you were wrongfully terminated or forced to leave the company because of a hostile work environment
- Loss of employment benefits
- Medical expenses and counseling costs
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- The costs of bringing an employment law action, including attorneys’ fees and court costs
You could be entitled to reinstatement to your prior position if your employer is guilty of wrongful termination. Our attorneys will review all available damages to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Proving an Age Discrimination Claim
Age discrimination claims generally fall into one of two categories:
- Disparate Treatment: This is intentional discrimination. For instance, if you were passed over for a promotion because of your age, you are the victim of disparate treatment.
- Disparate Impact: If a workplace policy or practice appears to be neutral but disproportionately affects older employees, it may be unlawful.
In either case, proving workplace discrimination can be challenging. You must prove that the employer’s actions violated age discrimination laws, resulting in your damages.
What Should I Do if I’m the Victim of Age Discrimination in Arizona?
If you suspect that your employer is discriminating against you based on your age, it is vital that you collect evidence of age discrimination. Make copies of all documents, emails, texts, and records related to the discrimination. Keep detailed notes of every instance of age discrimination, including the date, time, location, people involved, witnesses, and nature of the incident.
Follow your employer’s internal procedures for reporting discrimination at work. Ensure that your report is in writing and that you keep copies of all statements and complaints for your records. If your employer refuses to resolve your complaint satisfactorily, contact an attorney immediately. The time to file a complaint can be as short as 180 days for claims under Arizona law and 300 days for claims with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Phoenix Age Discrimination Attorneys
Are you concerned that you have been discriminated against by your employer because of your age? We can help you with all matters related to your situation, including harassment, discrimination, and wrongful termination claims. Contact our Phoenix age discrimination attorneys at Houk Employment Attorneys to schedule a consultation.
