Experienced Age Discrimination Lawyers in Riverside
Age discrimination is illegal under both California and federal law. If you’ve been fired, passed over for a promotion, harassed, or treated unfairly because of your age, our experienced attorneys will build a strong case to hold your employer accountable. We take on some of the largest companies and toughest defense law firms in the nation, and we don’t charge you a dime unless we win your case. Our goal is to empower you and ensure you receive the fair treatment and compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP?
At Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP, we pride ourselves on our proven track record, compassionate approach, and relentless dedication to our clients. Here’s why we’re the right choice for your age discrimination case in Riverside:
- Proven Success: We’ve recovered over $275 million for clients in employment and injury cases, including age discrimination claims. Our results speak to our ability to deliver justice.
- Experienced Team: Led by founding attorney John D. Winer, who has been practicing law since 1980, our team brings decades of expertise to every case. We’re recognized as leaders in
- California’s legal community, with awards like finalist for California Consumer Attorney of the Year and San Francisco Trial Attorney of the Year.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. We cover all upfront costs, so there’s no financial risk to you.
- Personalized Care: We know every case is personal. We listen to your story, keep you informed at every step, and tailor our approach to meet your needs. Our clients appreciate our honesty, empathy, and dedication.
- Free Confidential Consultation: We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to review your case and explain your options. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you forward.
Our Riverside age discrimination lawyers are passionate about protecting workers’ rights. We’ve built a reputation for taking on challenging cases and delivering results, no matter how big the opponent.
What is Age Discrimination?
Age discrimination occurs when an employer treats you unfairly because of your age, typically targeting workers over 40. Both California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protect employees from this kind of mistreatment. Unfortunately, age discrimination is all too common in today’s workplaces, and it can take many forms, including:
- Wrongful Termination: Being fired or laid off because of your age, often under the guise of “restructuring” or “cost-cutting.”
- Denial of Promotions: Being passed over for promotions or career opportunities in favor of younger, less qualified employees.
- Harassment: Facing age-related comments, jokes, or a hostile work environment that makes you feel undervalued or unwelcome.
- Unequal Treatment: Being given less desirable assignments, lower pay, or fewer benefits compared to younger coworkers.
- Forced Retirement: Being pressured to retire or offered early retirement packages to push older workers out.
These actions not only violate the law but can also take a significant emotional and financial toll. If you’ve experienced any of these situations in Riverside or elsewhere in California, our age discrimination attorneys can help you fight back. We’ll investigate your case, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to, which may include lost wages, emotional distress damages, and punitive damages in cases of egregious misconduct.
Statute of Limitations for Age Discrimination Claims in California
Timing is critical when pursuing an age discrimination claim. In California, the statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing a claim, and missing these deadlines can prevent you from seeking justice. Here’s what you need to know:
- California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): Under FEHA, you must file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) within three years from the date of the discriminatory act (e.g., termination, harassment, or denial of a promotion). This applies to most age discrimination claims in California.
- Federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): For federal claims, you must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days from the date of the discriminatory act if you’re also pursuing a state claim with the CRD, or 180 days if you’re only filing federally. After receiving a “right to sue” notice from the EEOC, you have 90 days to file a lawsuit in federal court.
- Exceptions: In some cases, the statute of limitations may be extended if the discrimination is ongoing (known as a “continuing violation”) or if you didn’t discover the discrimination until later. Our attorneys can review your case to determine if any exceptions apply.
Because these deadlines are strict, it’s crucial to act quickly. Contacting our Riverside age discrimination lawyer as soon as possible ensures we can file your claim on time and protect your rights. During your free consultation, we’ll explain the deadlines that apply to your case and guide you through the process.
How We Build Your Case
At Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP, we take a thorough and strategic approach to every age discrimination case. Here’s how we work to get you the best possible outcome:
- Free Consultation and Case Evaluation: We start by listening to your story during a free, confidential consultation. We’ll ask detailed questions to understand what happened, review any evidence you have (like emails, performance reviews, or witness statements), and evaluate the strength of your case.
- In-Depth Investigation: Our team digs deep to uncover evidence of discrimination. This may include interviewing coworkers, analyzing company policies, and reviewing employment records to show a pattern of unfair treatment.
- Building a Solid Case: We craft a compelling case backed by facts, legal precedent, and expert testimony if needed. Our goal is to prove that your age was a factor in the mistreatment you experienced.
- Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating a settlement or fighting in court, we take on the largest defense law firms and insurance companies with confidence. We’re not afraid to go to trial if it’s in your best interest.
- Ongoing Communication: We keep you informed at every stage, explaining your options clearly and answering your questions. You’ll never feel left in the dark.
Our Riverside age discrimination lawyers have a deep understanding of California employment law and a track record of success in complex cases. We’re committed to maximizing your compensation and holding wrongdoers accountable.
Understanding Your Rights Under California Law
California has some of the strongest protections against age discrimination in the country. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants aged 40 or older. This law applies to companies with five or more employees, covering hiring, firing, promotions, pay, and workplace conditions.
The federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) also protects workers aged 40 and older, applying to employers with 20 or more employees. Together, these laws ensure that you have the right to a workplace free from age-based discrimination and harassment.
If your employer violated these laws, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Lost Wages: Back pay for wages you lost due to termination, demotion, or reduced hours.
- Future Earnings: Compensation for lost future income if your career was impacted.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for the stress, anxiety, or humiliation caused by discrimination.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of intentional or egregious misconduct.
- Attorney Fees: In many cases, the employer is required to cover your legal costs.
Our Riverside age discrimination attorneys will evaluate your case to determine the full extent of your damages and fight for every dollar you’re owed.
Frequently Asked Questions On Age Discrimination
What is age discrimination in the workplace?
Age discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfairly due to their age, particularly if they are over 40. This can include unfair firing, denial of promotions, or harassment based on age.
What are some common signs of age discrimination in the workplace?
Common signs include being passed over for a promotion in favor of younger colleagues, being excluded from training opportunities, receiving negative performance reviews without cause, or being laid off while younger employees are kept.
Who is protected from age discrimination under California law?
Under California law, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from discrimination in employment, regardless of the employer’s size.
What should I do if I believe I am a victim of age discrimination in Riverside?
You should consult with a Riverside age discrimination lawyer to discuss your situation. The lawyer can help you file a claim, gather evidence, and pursue justice.
What is the difference between age discrimination and wrongful termination?
Age discrimination refers to unfair treatment based on age, while wrongful termination refers to being fired in violation of employment laws, such as firing someone for reasons that are illegal, including discrimination based on age.
Can I still file a claim if I signed a severance agreement?
It depends on the agreement’s terms. Some severance agreements include waivers that limit your ability to sue, but these may not always be enforceable. Our attorneys can review your agreement to determine if you still have a case.
Can I sue my employer directly, or do I need to file with a government agency first?
Before suing, you must file a complaint with the CRD (for California claims) or the EEOC (for federal claims). These agencies investigate and issue a “right to sue” notice, allowing you to file a lawsuit. Our lawyers will guide you through this process.
Why Riverside Trusts Us
With offices in Oakland and San Francisco, Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP proudly serves Riverside and all of California. Our attorneys are recognized as leaders in the legal community, with accolades from the New York Times and awards like finalist for California Consumer Attorney of the Year. Mediators who’ve worked with thousands of lawyers have called John Winer “among the best” they’ve seen.
We understand the unique challenges faced by Riverside workers, from local businesses to larger corporations. Our team is committed to addressing the human side of every case, connecting with clients on a personal level while fighting aggressively to protect their rights.
Contact Our Riverside Age Discrimination Lawyer Today
Don’t let age discrimination go unchallenged. If you’ve been treated unfairly at work because of your age, Winer, Burritt, Scott & Jacobs, LLP is here to help. Reach out to our Riverside age discrimination attorney for a free, confidential consultation. Call us at (866) 939-2588 or fill out our online form.
We serve Riverside and all of California, fighting for justice with compassion, experience, and strength. Let us take on the toughest employers and defense lawyers to get you the compensation and justice you deserve.