Every employee is entitled to basic rights and fair treatment in the workplace as defined by law. If these rights have been violated, the experienced workplace discrimination lawyer team at Murray Law is prepared to help you protect your rights. Murray Law represents clients asserting discrimination claims in federal and state court lawsuits, filing discrimination charges with government agencies, and in mediation and arbitration proceedings throughout Colorado and beyond.

Employment attorney Steven Murray has successfully represented clients in employment discrimination and retaliation cases in multiple United States District Courts, including the District of Colorado. Steven has a proven track record of favorable jury trial outcomes and resolutions through mediation.

Workplace Discrimination Laws

Both federal and Colorado employment laws prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on:

• Race or Color
• Age
• National Origin
• Sex or Gender
• Pregnancy – Childbirth – Related Medical Conditions.
• Equal Pay
• Sexual Orientation
• Disability
• Religion – Religious Practice – Religious Observances.

In addition to federal laws, Colorado also provides additional discrimination protections. The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination because: (1) an individual is a victim of domestic abuse; (2) an individual has participated in lawful off-duty activities; and (3) a person’s marital status.

There are many laws in place regarding employee rights in the workplace, which is why it’s important to have the guidance of a skilled workplace discrimination lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney will ensure that their client is aware of all rights afforded under the law and fight for the protections that they are entitled to.

Hostile Work Environment

Workplace harassment or a hostile work environment, occurs when offensive conduct is tied to a legally protected trait such as race, gender, or disability. If an employee has been targeted due to a protected status, it’s crucial to work with an experienced workplace discrimination lawyer to file a claim under federal or Colorado discrimination laws.

Retaliation in the Workplace

Federal and Colorado laws strictly prohibit workplace retaliation against employees, applicants, or former employees for engaging in protected activity, such as filing a discrimination complaint or opposing unlawful practices.

Key Elements of a Retaliation Claim

• Protected Activity - Reporting discrimination or participating in related legal proceedings.

• Adverse Action - Materially adverse employment action such as termination, demotion, or harassment.
• Casual Connection - A link between the employee’s protected activity and the employer’s adverse action.

Before filing a lawsuit, most retaliation claims require an administrative filing. The employee can file a charge of retaliation with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days of the act of retaliation, or with the Colorado Civil Rights Division within 180 days.

How a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer Can Help

The potential remedies for a discrimination claim lawsuit depend on many factors, including the specific law, the employer’s size, and the facts. Working with a knowledgeable discrimination and retaliation attorney may increase the chance of a successful outcome.

If a claim is successful, the employee may be entitled to:

• Lost wages and benefits
• Compensatory damages for emotional distress
• Punitive or liquidated damages
• Reinstatement or front pay if the discrimination resulted in losing employment
• Attorney fees and court costs

Work With a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer

Murray Law offers aggressive representation for workplace discrimination and retaliation cases. With deep experience in federal and Colorado employment law, we are prepared to help clients navigate the complex legal processes and get them the justice they deserve.