Costa Mesa Disability Discrimination Lawyers

Disability discrimination comes in all shapes and sizes, sometimes being obvious and other times going undetected for significant periods of time. As an employee, it is crucial to understand your protected rights. There are federal and state laws in place to safeguard against discrimination in the workplace of any kind, including cases involving disabilities. Many Costa Mesa disability discrimination lawyers work tirelessly to fight for people just like you.

Almost 25% of adults in California have a disability. If you know or believe you may be a victim of disability discrimination, it is important to reach out for legal help as soon as possible. There are many important factors to take care of when handling a discrimination case, many of which are time-sensitive. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, file your claim, locate and speak with witnesses or other victims, and even represent you in court.

Disability discrimination is a broad term that can be used to refer to a plethora of different types of situations. Because there are numerous types of disabilities, there are innumerable ways in which individuals with disabilities may be discriminated against. California reported 5,099 charge receipts for individuals filing complaints because of disability discrimination in 2024. Below is a list of some more common types of discrimination involving disabilities: 

• Harassment. This can involve any employer or fellow employee joking with or directly demeaning another employee, specifically because of their disability.
• Rejection for promotion. Some employees face rejection for promotions only because of their disability.
• Rejection for hire. In some cases, rejecting a job applicant’s inquiries for a job posting may be the result of disability discrimination.
• Failing to provide reasonable accommodations. Federal and state laws require an employer to provide reasonable accommodations for all employees with disabilities. Failing to do so can result in the employer being required to provide compensation for any losses accrued as a result.

The city of Costa Mesa takes its responsibilities for disabled citizens seriously. There are various programs and services in place that are provided to safeguard the protections afforded to those with disabilities within the public sphere. The ADA director for the city is available to help anyone facing discriminatory issues based on their disability. The contact information is listed below:

ADA Coordinator: Brenda Green, City Clerk 77 Fair Drive, City Clerk Office, 1st Floor, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

It can be almost impossible to do an efficient job at work when you are facing the difficulties of discrimination. When the workplace and environment become a source of stress and fear, it can be difficult to know where to turn. At California Employment Counsel, APC, we understand all the many challenges you are facing. Whether you have already filed a claim or are considering doing so, we are here to support you each step of the way.

Our team has extensive experience in handling cases of employment discrimination. We have helped clients since 2009 and have decades of combined experience representing employees who have been victims of discrimination. With our experience and understanding on your side, you can fight confidently for the justice you are owed.

Q: What Is the Fair Employment and Housing Act in California? 

A: The Fair Employment and Housing Act in California is a state statute that protects individuals from being discriminated against due to their disability. It protects employees in the workplace from receiving unlawful treatment based on their needs. It also helps to ensure that those who need assistance or reasonable accommodations are provided with them. This statute is also strengthened by the federal law, the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Q: What Is Considered a Service Animal? 

A: Service animals are defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which allows individuals with specific disabilities to acquire a service animal in order to provide assistance and support. An example of this would be a dog that is specifically trained to work or perform a task for an individual with a disability, such as someone with a vision impairment. The dog may perform tasks that would help in the same way as they would if their vision were not impaired.

Q: What Employees Are Protected by the Americans With Disabilities Act? 

A: Any employee with a disability is protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are countless specific types of disabilities that are protected, both physical and mental. Some more common examples include vision impairment, hearing impairment, the need to use a wheelchair, depression, anxiety disorders, and others. An employee may inform their employer of their disability and thereby receive the appropriate treatment and accommodations.

Q: What Is Considered a Reasonable Accommodation? 

A: Reasonable accommodations are expected to be given to any employee with a disability. This will look different for each employee and their needs. For example, an employee who requires the assistance of a wheelchair may be unable to perform tasks while standing, so their employer may provide the reasonable accommodation of allowing them to work while remaining in their wheelchair. Reasonable accommodation is required according to state and federal laws.

In 2024, there were 48 cases filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you or a loved one has experienced discrimination in the workplace due to a disability in Costa Mesa, there is no time to waste in securing legal representation. These cases carry a time limit, meaning that once a certain amount of time has passed, you will no longer be able to pursue legal action. In order to achieve the compensation you deserve, it is imperative that you begin the process as soon as possible.

California Employment Counsel, APC, is intricately familiar with the legal process you are facing. We have helped countless clients just like you face their employers and demand the justice they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about who we are and how we may be able to help. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and to guide you through each step of this difficult process.