New York Religious Discrimination Lawyer

Defending Your Employee Rights in New York

The founding documents of the United States protect Americans in the free exercise of religion. More recently, federal laws, as well as New York State laws, protect those religious rights in the workplace. Except where it would create an unreasonable burden, your employer or prospective employer is required by law to accommodate your religious practice whenever possible. If you have experienced discrimination based on your religious beliefs, do not hesitate to contact Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP for the legal representation you deserve.

Call Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP today at (646) 490-0221 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our religious discrimination attorney in New York.

Examples of Religious Discrimination in the Workplace

Religious discrimination in the workplace can take place in a number of ways, such as:

• Derogatory comments or depictions regarding members of your religion that lead to the existence of a hostile work environment
• Scheduling important tests or selection exercises for times that conflict with an employee's religious practice, such as on a Sabbath day
• Preventing you from having contact with clients because of religious wear such as a turban, head covering, or yarmulke
• Forbidding certain hairstyles or clothing related to your religion, such as Rastafarian dreadlocks, Sikh long hair and beard, or a Mennonite head covering
• Terminating an employee for taking time off work in observance of a religious holiday when that employee followed the proper protocol for requesting leave
• Mandatory employee programs that involve "new age" concepts such as meditation, yoga, and other practices that are in conflict with your religious beliefs
• Refusal to accommodate certain religious practices, such as daily prayer or Sabbath observance, when doing so would not present an "unreasonable burden" to the employer
• Denying employment, promotion, pay raises, or other benefits to employees based on their religious beliefs and practice

Reasonable Accommodation & "Sincerely Held" Belief

Even if a particular employee's religious beliefs are not entirely compatible with work hours, workplace practices or certain days of the week, employers must work with the employee to try and accommodate him/her.

The reasonable accommodation standard under the framework of a religious discrimination claim is somewhat different from that analysis under a disability claim. An employer has an obligation to reasonably accommodate a "sincerely held" religious belief. The difficulty arises in determining what exactly is or is not "sincerely held."

The reasonable accommodation standard is subject to an employer claiming undue hardship, which means that it would conflict with legitimate business interests.

How to Prove Religious Discrimination in the Workplace

Proving religious discrimination can be challenging, but you can create a strong case with the right legal guidance. Here are key elements to consider:

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of any discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, locations, and individuals involved. This can include emails, text messages, or any other form of communication.
• Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the discriminatory behavior, obtain their statements. Witnesses can provide crucial support for your case.
• Employment Policies and Handbooks: Review your employer's policies and handbooks to identify any violations related to religious discrimination. This documentation can be essential in demonstrating a pattern of discriminatory behavior within the organization.
• Comparative Treatment: If possible, show how employees of different religions were treated differently in similar situations. This can help show a pattern of discriminatory practices.
• Seek Legal Advice Early: Consult with an experienced New York religious discrimination lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you assess the strength of your case and guide you on the best course of action.

The Role of a Religious Discrimination Attorney

When facing religious discrimination, enlisting the support of a New York religious discrimination lawyer is essential for safeguarding your rights.

• Legal Experience Tailored to You: Religious discrimination cases are nuanced, demanding a thorough understanding of the legal landscape. A specialized attorney can guide you through the complexities, evaluating your unique situation and devising a personalized strategy for resolution. From discrimination in employment to daily interactions, their expertise ensures an informed and effective approach.
• Customized Strategies for Resolution: A skilled lawyer will craft a customized strategy to address your specific case, employing negotiation, mediation, or litigation as needed. This tailored approach maximizes the chances of a favorable resolution, with the attorney advocating for your rights and seeking fair compensation for any damages incurred due to discrimination.
• Navigating Negotiations and Litigation: Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, your attorney will navigate the legal process adeptly. In negotiations, they advocate for your interests, striving for a fair settlement. In court, their litigation support ensures a robust defense, presenting evidence and arguments to secure the best possible outcome.
• Getting Justice and Compensation: Beyond legal proceedings, your lawyer is committed to helping you get justice. They understand the toll discrimination takes and tirelessly pursue fair compensation for emotional distress, lost wages, and relevant losses.

Contact Our New York Religious Discrimination Attorney Today

If your religious rights have been violated at your place of work, do not hesitate to retain the services of a New York employment law attorney who can protect those rights fiercely and effectively. At Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP, we are passionate about ensuring that our clients' employee rights are upheld. To learn more about or firm and our track record of success in employment discrimination cases, contact Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP today.

Contact Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP today to get started with our New York religious discrimination lawyer.