
To prove discrimination in the workplace, you need to show that you were treated unfairly based on a protected characteristic, such as race, gender, age, or disability. You must also demonstrate that this treatment resulted in a negative employment action, like termination, demotion, or denied opportunities.
Discrimination is often subtle and difficult to document, which is why building a strong claim takes both evidence and legal strategy. A workplace discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles can help you understand what qualifies as unlawful treatment and how to gather proof that supports your case.
Types of Evidence That Can Support Your Case
Direct evidence of discrimination is rare. Employers seldom admit to bias, and most will offer neutral explanations for their actions. That’s why our Los Angeles employment lawyers focus on building cases using a combination of documentation, patterns of behavior, and witness accounts.
The following types of evidence are commonly used to prove workplace discrimination:
- Emails, texts, or written statements showing biased language or remarks
- Performance reviews that suddenly shift after a protected disclosure or request
- Comparison data showing others outside your protected class received better treatment
- Internal complaints that went unaddressed or resulted in retaliation
- Witness testimony from coworkers who observed the unfair treatment
In some cases, statistical evidence can also prove discrimination in the workplace on a systemic level. We help gather and present this evidence in a way that clearly illustrates how the mistreatment occurred and why it is legally significant.
Understanding the Legal Basis for Proving Discrimination
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we know how frustrating it can be when your hard work is overshadowed by bias or unfair treatment. California law offers strong protections for workers, but proving that your employer crossed the line requires a clear understanding of your rights and the legal framework.
Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), it is illegal for employers with five or more employees to discriminate based on:
- Race or ethnicity
- Gender or gender identity
- Sexual orientation
- Religion
- Disability
- Age (over 40)
- Pregnancy or related medical conditions
- Marital status
- Military or veteran status
Discrimination can take many forms, including failure to hire or promote, termination, unequal pay, or denial of reasonable accommodations. Our team of Los Angeles employment lawyers helps clients identify the specific violations in their case and determine how the law applies.
What It Takes to Prove Discrimination in the Workplace
To prove your case, four key elements must typically be met:
- You are part of a protected group.
- You were qualified for your job or performing well.
- You experienced a negative employment action.
- Someone outside your protected class received more favorable treatment, or your treatment was clearly tied to bias.
You do not need to meet all of these criteria in the same way as another case might. Every claim is different, and our job is to help shape the facts of your case into a clear, persuasive legal argument.
How We Investigate Discrimination Claims
As experienced employment attorneys, we take a thorough, step-by-step approach to building workplace discrimination cases. Every inquiry starts with examining your documents and creating a comprehensive timeline of events.
After that, we search for any discrepancies in your employer’s statements, identify patterns of inappropriate behavior, and review any past complaints of a similar nature in the workplace. Our process often includes:
- Interviewing coworkers or supervisors who may support your version of events
- Reviewing company policies to identify violations or gaps in enforcement
- Requesting internal records through legal channels (when appropriate)
- Preparing you for mediation, negotiation, or trial
We also file administrative complaints with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) when required, helping you preserve your right to file a lawsuit if needed.
What Happens After You File a Complaint?
Filing a discrimination complaint sets several things in motion. Depending on your case, you may:
- Receive a “right to sue” notice from the CRD or EEOC
- Enter into mediation or settlement discussions
- Move forward with a lawsuit in civil court
Throughout this process, our team will keep you informed on your options and handle communications with your employer and their legal team. Our goal is to protect your rights and pursue the outcome that best supports your career and emotional well-being.
Common Mistakes That Hurt Discrimination Cases
A lot of employees hesitate to report discrimination due to fears of retaliation or doubts about their ability to provide evidence. Some opt to resolve issues within their company’s human resources department, but often discover that their concerns are overlooked or trivialized.
Although each case differs, there are several common mistakes to steer clear of, including:
- Not documenting incidents: Keep a written record of events, comments, or actions you believe were discriminatory.
- Quitting without legal advice: In some cases, resigning can impact your ability to pursue damages.
- Missing deadlines: California’s statute of limitations for filing with the CRD is generally one year from the date of the last discriminatory act.
Before taking any action, it is worth speaking with a legal professional who can help you weigh your options and avoid preventable errors.
Talk to a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer in Los Angeles
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work, don’t wait to get answers. At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we represent employees across Los Angeles who have been mistreated, terminated, or denied fair opportunities because of who they are.
We know how hard it is to speak up, especially when your job or reputation is at stake. That’s why we offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and decide what to do next. Our team has recovered millions of dollars for workers across California, and we are ready to fight for the outcome you deserve.
Call today to speak with a member of our team about your discrimination claim. Let our family take care of your future.