Discrimination
Workplace Discrimination: Standing Up for Fairness and Equality
Every employee deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and equality — regardless of who they are. Unfortunately, workplace discrimination remains one of the most pervasive forms of injustice faced by employees across California. It not only affects careers and finances but also erodes confidence, mental health, and self-worth.
At Smith & Reback, we believe that no one should be treated unfairly because of their race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background. Our firm has successfully represented countless employees who’ve faced discrimination in hiring, pay, promotions, or termination — and we’re committed to fighting back until justice is served.
What Is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employer treats someone unfairly or unequally because of a protected characteristic. Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964), it is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on:
Race, color, or ethnicity
Gender or sexual orientation
Age (40 and over)
Disability or medical condition
Pregnancy or parental status
Religion or creed
National origin or ancestry
Marital status or gender identity
Discrimination can take many forms — being passed over for promotions, denied training opportunities, receiving lower pay than others, being harassed because of personal identity, or being fired after revealing a disability or pregnancy. Even small patterns of bias can build into a hostile or toxic workplace environment, which the law protects you from.
Recognizing the Signs of Discrimination
Some forms of discrimination are obvious — like racial slurs, offensive jokes, or direct harassment — but others are subtle and systemic. You might be:
Consistently excluded from meetings or decision-making
Given less favorable schedules or responsibilities
Penalized for reasons that don’t align with your performance
Denied reasonable accommodations for disabilities
Terminated shortly after disclosing pregnancy or religion-related needs
If any of this sounds familiar, your employer’s actions may be unlawful. At Smith & Reback, we investigate deeply, uncover hidden patterns of bias, and bring the truth to light.
How Smith & Reback Protects Your Rights
Our attorneys are passionate advocates for employee equality and have years of experience litigating discrimination cases across California. We work to hold employers, HR departments, and corporate leaders accountable when they fail to uphold your rights.
Our legal team helps clients recover:
Lost wages and future earnings
Compensation for emotional distress
Punitive damages for employer misconduct
Reinstatement or job restoration (if appropriate)
Attorney’s fees and court costs
We handle everything — from initial complaint filings with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the EEOC to negotiations and, if necessary, courtroom litigation. Our goal is simple: to restore justice and dignity for every client we represent.
Why Choose Smith & Reback
At Smith & Reback, we stand firmly on the side of employees — never corporations. Our firm’s reputation is built on integrity, compassion, and powerful results. We’ve secured millions in settlements and verdicts for victims of workplace discrimination and retaliation, and we fight each case with the same commitment and care as if it were our own.
We understand the emotional toll discrimination takes — the silence, the fear, the humiliation. That’s why we provide not just legal representation, but also genuine support, guidance, and the reassurance that you’re not alone in this fight.
Take Action — Stand Up for Your Rights
If you’ve been treated unfairly or believe you’ve suffered discrimination at work, don’t wait. The law limits how long you have to file a claim, and early action often makes the difference between justice and dismissal.
📞 Call Smith & Reback today at 818-382-4000 to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
Our experienced discrimination lawyers will listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you build a strong case for justice.
At Smith & Reback, we don’t just fight cases — we fight for equality, fairness, and your right to be respected at work.