Your workplace should be a place of safety, respect, and opportunity—not fear or frustration. But when discrimination enters the picture, even your dream job can turn toxic. If you’re being treated unfairly because of who you are—not how you perform—you may need an employment discrimination lawyer in NJ to help you take your power back.
Let’s break down what your rights are, how to recognize when they’re violated, and how a dedicated attorney can guide you toward justice.
What Is Employment Discrimination in New Jersey?
Discrimination in the workplace occurs when you’re treated differently or denied opportunities based on characteristics that are legally protected under federal or New Jersey law.
Protected characteristics include:
- Race or national origin
- Gender or pregnancy status
- Age (40 and older)
- Disability (mental or physical)
- Religion
- Sexual orientation or gender identity
In New Jersey, the Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) is one of the strongest in the nation—providing broader protections and longer timelines than federal law. This means workers here have real leverage to stand up to injustice.
Protected Under the Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD)
Signs You’re Facing Illegal Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination isn’t always blatant. Often, it hides behind coded language, unexplained decisions, or sudden changes in treatment.
Watch for red flags like:
- A sudden demotion after taking medical leave
- Getting passed over for promotion while younger, less experienced colleagues advance
- Derogatory comments that go unaddressed by management
- Being written up or fired shortly after reporting harassment
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts—and get a legal opinion. Most people don’t realize they have a valid claim until they speak with an employment discrimination lawyer in NJ who understands how these cases unfold.
Your Rights Under NJLAD and Federal Law
Knowing your rights is step one. Enforcing them is where legal help becomes crucial.
Key legal protections include:
- The right to file a complaint without retaliation
- The ability to seek damages for emotional distress and lost wages
- The right to work in a harassment-free environment
You can file through the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)—but deadlines apply (180–300 days federally; 2 years under NJLAD). Waiting too long can cost you your claim.
What an Employment Discrimination Lawyer in NJ Can Do for You
When you’re up against a company with HR teams and defense attorneys, going it alone isn’t just risky—it’s often impossible. That’s where Swartz Swidler steps in.
A good attorney will:
- Evaluate whether your experience meets the legal standard for discrimination
- Collect and preserve evidence—emails, performance reviews, witness statements
- Handle negotiations, EEOC filings, or court proceedings
- Fight for a settlement or verdict that compensates you fairly
Most of our clients never imagined hiring a workplace discrimination attorney—until their dignity, career, or livelihood was on the line.
Why Clients Trust Swartz Swidler with Their Workplace Rights
With deep expertise in New Jersey employment law, Swartz Swidler has become a go-to resource for workers who want results—not red tape. We’ve helped secure justice for clients in industries ranging from healthcare and finance to education and manufacturing.
Our promise to you:
- Free, no-pressure consultation to hear your story
- Clear advice on what to expect—and what your case is worth
- Relentless advocacy in and out of the courtroom
When it’s time to hire a workplace discrimination lawyer in NJ, don’t settle for anyone but a firm that lives and breathes this law. Don’t wait—book your consultation now and get the clarity you deserve.
What to Expect When You Call
Making that first call can feel intimidating. We get it. That’s why our process is built around your comfort and confidentiality.
During your free consultation, we will:
- Ask about your work history and the treatment you’ve faced
- Review any supporting documents you have (emails, reviews, write-ups)
- Explain what options you have—without legal jargon or sales pressure
Whether you’re just starting to document your experience or ready to file a claim, speaking with an NJ employment discrimination lawyer can give you immediate clarity—and peace of mind.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you feel stuck, silenced, or scared at work because of who you are—not how you perform—it’s time to take back control. The law is on your side. Swartz Swidler is on your side.
Get your personalized legal strategy today from a top-rated employment discrimination lawyer in NJ.
Your story matters. Your rights matter. Let’s fight for them—together.