California is an at will state. That means employers can dismiss an employee for almost any reason, even without just or due cause. However, protections are in place against terminations of employment based on protected characteristics, such as for example age. Age discrimination in the workplace affects employees over the age of 40. Any employee seeking an age discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles can contact Akopyan Law Firm A.P.C. which provides services to both employers and employees.
Why do employers discriminate based on age?
Why would any employer want to lose the value of experienced, loyal employees? One reason may be “cost” reduction. Logic dictates that the longer an employee works for a company, the more likely it is that the employee will be compensated at a higher rate than say someone that is brand new. Another reason may be appearances. For example, some restaurants which cater to younger patrons may prefer to hire employees who are closer in age to the patrons of the restaurants. Another reason still may be some sort of personal animosity towards older people based upon an ageist predisposition. Regardless of the reasons why an employer may discriminate against an older worker, it bears noting that California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act protects employees that are 40 years of age or older. This protection is in place to prevent employers from discriminating against their older workers on the basis of their age.
Examples of age discrimination
It can be difficult to identify age discrimination. Employees seeking an age discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles, often want to discuss scenarios such as the following:
• An employee realizes they are being excluded from important meetings or projects for which they are well suited.
• An employee starts getting negative work performance reviews as they get older, despite no change in work ethic.
• An employee is routinely told they are too old or asked when they plan to retire.
• The age demographic is systematically shifting downward, with more younger workers replacing older workers.
How can Akopyan Law Firm A.P.C. help?
If you need an age discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles, contact Akopyan Law Firm A.P.C. The Akopyan Law Firm operates out of its offices in Los Angeles but serves much of Southern California, including Glendale, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino. The Akopyan Law Firm offers complimentary case evaluations and typically represents employees on a contingency fee basis. This means we do not charge a retainer or costly hourly fees. Instead, we take a percentage from the settlement or verdict. Treating clients with dignity and respect and delivering first class service helped us become one of the best age discrimination lawyers in Los Angeles.
If you are an employee that feels discriminated against, or an employer that needs help understanding your responsibilities, contact us today.