No one should be treated unfairly or denied opportunities because of a physical or mental disability. Yet, many qualified employees in New Jersey still face barriers at work due to discriminatory attitudes or failure to accommodate their needs. If you’ve encountered obstacles based on your disability, you may have a legal claim — and the law is on your side.
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is dedicated to representing employees who have experienced disability discrimination in the workplace. We believe in leveling the playing field and ensuring that all workers — regardless of ability — are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
What Is Disability Discrimination?
Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats an applicant or employee less favorably because of a disability, perceived disability, or association with someone who has a disability. It also includes the failure to make reasonable accommodations that would enable a person with a disability to perform their job.
Examples of disability discrimination include:
- Refusing to hire a qualified individual due to their disability
- Terminating an employee after a medical diagnosis
- Failing to provide modified work schedules or equipment
- Harassing or mocking an employee with a disability
- Retaliating against someone for requesting accommodations
Your Legal Protections in New Jersey
In New Jersey, employees are protected under both federal and state law:
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A federal law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all employment practices.
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): A state law that provides even broader protections, covering a wider range of physical and mental conditions and requiring reasonable accommodations unless they impose an undue hardship.
Employers must engage in an “interactive process” when an accommodation is requested, meaning they must work collaboratively with the employee to find a feasible solution.
Reasonable Accommodations: What You’re Entitled To
A reasonable accommodation is any modification or adjustment that enables a qualified individual with a disability to perform their job duties. This might include:
- Modified work schedules or shifts
- Remote work or telecommuting options
- Accessible office spaces or adaptive equipment
- Extended medical leave or time off for treatment
- Job restructuring or reassignment of marginal duties
Employers are required to provide these accommodations unless they can show that doing so would cause undue hardship to the business.
What to Do If You’ve Faced Disability Discrimination
If you suspect you’ve been treated unfairly due to a disability, take the following steps:
- Keep records: Document discriminatory remarks, performance reviews, accommodation requests, and correspondence with HR or supervisors.
- Submit a formal request: Clearly explain the accommodation you need and why it helps you perform your job.
- Contact an employment attorney: A lawyer can evaluate your situation, help enforce your rights, and pursue compensation or corrective action if necessary.
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC understands how sensitive and personal these cases can be. We treat every client with compassion while pursuing legal remedies aggressively and effectively.
Equal Opportunity Shouldn’t Have Exceptions
You have the right to work in an environment free from bias and barriers. If your disability has been used against you — whether explicitly or subtly — we’re here to help you stand up for your rights and get the fair treatment you deserve.
To learn more about disability rights in the workplace, visit our page on Disability Discrimination.
Contact Us
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
Phone: (973) 358-7027