If you are dealing with problems at your workplace, you may be wondering what type of action you can take. You should not have to put up with any type of mistreatment at your job. It may be possible to sue your employer for treating you unfairly.
However, what type of situations justify a lawsuit? Here are some reasons employees bring claims against their employers.
1. Discrimination and harassment
Do you face any of these at work?
- Insults
- Slurs
- Offensive jokes
- Bullying
If so, you may have the grounds to file a lawsuit. This is especially true if you are facing harassment because of your gender, race, national origin, religion, age or disability. Discrimination may also take the form of denying you a raise, firing you or refusing to promote you for any of these reasons.
2. Sexual harassment
Unfortunately, sexual harassment is still a huge problem. You may be a victim of sexual harassment if your co-workers, managers or anyone else at your workplace are partaking in any of the following behaviors:
- Making sexual comments
- Telling inappropriate jokes
- Sending suggestive notes, letters, emails or text messages
- Requesting sexual favors
- Asking you out on dates
- Inquiring about your sexual history
- Touching you or your clothing
Sexual harassment is unacceptable and illegal. Seek legal advice if you think you are going through this type of experience at your job.
3. Wage and hour problems
Your employer must treat you fairly in terms of the hours you work and the pay you receive. If your employer is denying you meals, refusing to pay you overtime or misclassifying you as an independent contractor rather than an employee, you may be able to submit a wage and hour claim.
These are just a few of the most common reasons workers sue their bosses. There are plenty of other unlawful situations that may warrant lawsuits, such as wrongful termination and retaliation.