What Are the Discrimination Laws in Los Angeles?

Whether you are a concerned employee who believes they may have experienced discrimination or are simply trying to be more knowledgeable before a situation arises, you may have asked yourself, “What are the discrimination laws in Los Angeles?” Though these laws can be easily looked up, it can be difficult to understand exactly how they apply to your specific circumstances.

A Los Angeles gender discrimination lawyer at Park APC is here to shed insight into this topic. Discrimination law can be a complex field, but it is worth investing time into learning. An employment attorney can help you understand the relevance of these laws and their impact on your workplace.

What Is Discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when individuals or groups are not treated fairly or equally based on characteristics such as gender, disability, race, age, religion, veteran status, sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics. Discrimination can happen due to prejudices, stereotypes, or systemic biases ingrained in societal structures, institutions, and individual behaviors. Due to the far reach of discrimination, laws are established to promote inclusive and equitable spaces.

Discrimination Laws in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles adheres to both state and federal protection laws against discrimination. While you may be familiar with federal laws such as Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Fair Housing Act, you may be less familiar with Los Angeles city and county-specific discrimination laws. Below is a list of Los Angeles and California-specific anti-discrimination laws:

• Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC): This code prohibits discrimination of protected characteristics in housing, employment, and public accommodations within the city limits.
• Los Angeles County Code: Similar to the LAMC, this code provides protection at the county level.
• Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring (Ban the Box): This initiative restricts employers in the city of Los Angeles from inquiring about an applicant’s criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment has been made.
• Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): This act is administered by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). It prohibits employment and housing discrimination based on protected characteristics.
• Unruh Civil Rights Act: This act prohibits discrimination by all business establishments in California, including housing and public establishments, on all protected characteristics, including immigration status, primary language, and citizenship.
• California Family Rights Act (CFRA): This act provides employees with the right to take job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons.

By thoroughly understanding these laws and the available resources, individuals in the Los Angeles area can effectively address and combat discrimination in their lives. As we can see from these acts and laws, discrimination can manifest in various ways, but it all requires decisive action.

Where to File a Discrimination Complaint in Los Angeles, California

If you have the unfortunate experience of being on the receiving end of discrimination based on a protected right, you have legal protections locally in Los Angeles. The following is a list of agencies that can provide support and relief:

• California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH): The DFEH handles complaints related to employment, housing, public accommodations, and state-funded programs. You can file a complaint online, by phone, and by mail.
• Los Angeles Civil and Human Rights and Equity Department (LA Civil Rights): LA Civil Rights takes complaints within the city limits of Los Angeles related to discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations by phone, in person, and online.
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The EEOC handles federal employment discrimination complaints in person, by phone, and online.
• Los Angeles County Office of Human Relations: The county office of human relations covers complaints related to the broader Los Angeles County area, not just within the city limits. They also take complaints by phone, in person, and online.

It is important to remember that in certain situations, there may be a statute of limitations for filing a discriminatory act, so it is important to act promptly. If you choose to file a complaint, consider keeping a detailed account of the incidents, including times, dates, witnesses, and other relevant documentation, as this can help validate your claim and provide helpful evidence. You do not need to keep this discrimination to yourself; reach out for help.

FAQs About Los Angeles, CA Discrimination Laws

What Are the Different Types of Discrimination?

Different types of discrimination occur in various settings, including employment (hiring, promotion, pay, opportunity), housing (renting, buying), education, and public accommodations (restaurants, stores). If you feel you have suffered discrimination, you may have the grounds to pursue legal action to receive the justice you deserve. Speak with a discrimination attorney today to learn more.

Do Anti-Discrimination Laws Actually Help?

If anti-discrimination laws actually help, it is a complex issue with both positive and negative answers. While anti-discrimination laws are not a perfect solution, they play a crucial role in promoting equal opportunity and combating discrimination. They have demonstrably improved access and fairness in areas such as employment and housing. However, ongoing widespread efforts are needed to address implicit bias and ensure effective enforcement of these laws.

What Constitutes Discrimination in California?

What constitutes discrimination in California is regulated under various state laws, such as the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Discrimination happens when individuals or groups are treated unfairly or less favorably due to specific protected characteristics such as race and color, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, disability, age, and more.

Can You Sue for Discrimination in California?

Yes, you can sue for discrimination in California. Several legal protections, such as the Fair Employment and Housing Act, the Unruh Civil Rights Act, and the California Family Rights Act, provide grounds for pursuing legal action to receive justice. To initiate a claim, it is recommended to speak with a discrimination lawyer, as they can help navigate the legal process and ensure you are taking the right steps for your case.

Contact a Trusted Discrimination Lawyer Located in California Today

At Park APC, we believe that all people have the right to equal and fair treatment. If you are experiencing discrimination for any protected characteristic, reach out to our office today to set up a consultation.