Michigan LGBTQ Discrimination Lawyers
The emotional distress suffered by LGBTQ individuals who are discriminated against in the workplace can dramatically impair their mental and physical health, as well as their overall financial situations. In 2022, everyone should be able to work in a safe and healthy environment. Yet, employment discrimination still occurs with shocking frequency, especially among members of the LGBTQ community.
If you have been unfairly treated, wrongfully terminated, or otherwise discriminated against based on your status as an LGBTQ individual, you have rights. It is in your best interest to immediately consult with an experienced LGBTQ workplace discrimination attorney. Contact the skilled legal team at Sommers Schwartz, P.C., today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
What Is LGBTQ Employment Discrimination?
Sex-based discrimination occurs when someone is mistreated based on their sex. For example, if a male job applicant is hired over a more-qualified female job applicant, she may be a victim of sex-based employment discrimination. LGBTQ employment discrimination further expands the definition of sex-based discrimination by prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2020 alone, 1,857 charges of LGBTQ discrimination were filed, totaling $6 million in monetary benefits.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), lesbian, gay, and bisexual workers and job applicants are protected under federal discrimination law. A Michigan LGBTQ workplace discrimination attorney can help you determine your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve if you’ve been a victim of employment discrimination.
Michigan and Federal LGBTQ Employment Discrimination Laws
Under Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, employment discrimination based on several categories is prohibited. However, the Act does not currently or explicitly include sexual orientation or gender identity. While expanding the Act to include sexual orientation and gender identity remains up for debate, state protections for LBTQ workers remain limited.
Federal protections are another story, however. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees and job applicants based on sex, which encompasses gender identity and sexual orientation under federal law. Since the EEOC interprets and enforces Title VII, the EEOC prohibits LGBTQ employment discrimination based on:
- Gender transition.
- Harassment.
- Wrongful termination.
- Denial of spousal benefits.
Legal Options for Victims of LGBTQ Employment Discrimination
If you have been discriminated against because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, you can file a complaint against your employer at both state and federal levels. Although Michigan doesn’t yet recognize LGBTQ discrimination as a basis for employment discrimination, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) does include LGBTQ discrimination under its broader prohibition of sex discrimination. Therefore, you may be entitled to obtain compensation for any damages suffered, under both state and federal law.
Common damages for victims of LGBTQ employment discrimination include:
- Lost income.
- Job search expenses.
- Relocation expenses.
- Punitive damages.
Contact a Michigan LGBTQ Workplace Discrimination Lawyer Today
If you have been harassed or discriminated against at work due to your gender identity or sexual orientation, the skilled legal team at Sommers Schwartz, P.C., can help. Our knowledgeable attorneys will ensure you fully understand your rights and options, and we have an impressive track record of obtaining maximum compensation for our clients in a timely manner. Do not go through this emotional, stressful experience without a skilled, compassionate discrimination lawyer by your side. You don’t need to suffer in silence for one more day. Contact Sommers Schwartz, P.C., today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
We fight hard. And we win.
News & Case Alerts
Read related articles and learn about recently filed cases.
A Client’s Gratitude for Tad Roumayah
Tad, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your unrelenting advocacy on my behalf throughout this process. It’s a shame that this sort of thing is still happening to new moms in 2023 and at an institution that prides itself on diversity, equity, and inclusion, no less. Knowing there…
Comments about Matthew Curtis from an Appreciative Client
Your efforts have changed my life, Matt. I’m forever grateful. My wife has tons of upcoming medical expenses, and we had both been working hard to make ends meet. I can’t thank you and your staff enough.
Praise for Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller and Matthew Curtis
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your hard work and dedication in handling my case. I appreciate your professionalism, your compassion, and your perseverance throughout this challenging process. You have gone above and beyond to protect my rights, to defend my interests, and to secure a favorable…
Praise for Wage & Overtime Pay Attorney Jesse Young
Jesse Young worked an employment case for me that ended with almost 700 people getting their unpaid wages back. He and his team are incredible. From the first communication to the last, they never missed a single beat – consistent and clear communication, quickly replying to my communication, and always making…
A Client Talks about Andy Dragovic
My wife had an accident, tripping over a cable line that wasn’t buried. Andy represented us and were very pleased with the outcome. Andy was very professional, personable, and quick to respond to us, answering any of our questions or concerns. The whole firm was responsive to our concerns, and…
Praise for Dina Zalewski
The lawyers at Sommers Schwartz, P.C. were nothing short of amazing when I came to them with my medical malpractice case! Dina truly helped to put my mind at ease and because of her and her firm, I finally have closure and can begin my healing process! I just want…
Gratitude for Rob Sickels
When our world was shattered by an unexpected medical diagnosis, we were referred to Rob Sickels of Sommers Schwartz. What a blessing to get this referral as Rob listened to us with caring and compassion, spent all the time necessary to help us, was always honest with us about our…
A Grateful Client Talks About Dina Zalewski
Dina never lied to us and was very straightforward. I feel like she took me under her wing. She got me through something that I thought was going to be incredibly difficult for me to relive. Dina felt like a friend, somebody I could trust and look to for guidance….
Our Clients Say It Best
