Disability should never be a barrier to professional success. Yet, countless individuals across the U.S. face unfair workplace treatment because of physical or mental disabilities. From being denied reasonable accommodations to facing retaliation after requesting support, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, you don’t have to face this battle alone. If you’ve experienced discrimination on the job, an ADA lawyer can help you fight back and protect your legal rights. This blog will explore how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defends workers, the signs of discrimination, and why hiring a legal advocate is essential for pursuing justice.
Understanding Your Rights Under the ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment. Under Title I of the ADA, employers with 15 or more employees are legally required to:
• Provide equal employment opportunities
• Offer reasonable accommodations to qualified employees
• Avoid retaliation against individuals who assert their ADA rights
• Treat employees and applicants fairly and equally
This means that your employer cannot legally demote, fire, or refuse to hire you based solely on a disability—nor can they ignore your request for accommodations without valid reason.
Signs of Disability Discrimination at Work
Workplace discrimination isn’t always blatant. Sometimes, it can appear subtle or be hidden under the guise of company policy. Here are common signs that your employer may be violating the ADA:
• Refusing to make simple adjustments to help you perform your job (e.g., schedule changes, equipment)
• Demoting or isolating you after disclosing your disability
• Passing you over for promotions or assignments based on health status
• Making offensive remarks or jokes about your disability
• Firing you shortly after a medical disclosure or accommodation request
• Denying job opportunities during the application process due to known disabilities
If any of these sound familiar, speaking with an ADA lawyer near you can clarify your options and start the process of holding your employer accountable.
How an ADA Lawyer Helps You Take Action
Navigating employment laws and filing complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) can be complex and emotionally draining. That’s why partnering with an ADA employment lawyer near you offers critical support.
1. Evaluating Your Case
Your lawyer will review your situation, documentation, communications, and any witness testimony to determine whether your employer violated the ADA.
2. Filing with the EEOC
Before filing a lawsuit, most ADA employment claims must go through the EEOC. Your attorney will handle this process, including preparing your complaint and managing deadlines.
3. Negotiating a Resolution
In many cases, your lawyer can negotiate a favorable outcome without going to trial. This might include compensation, reinstatement, or a customized accommodation agreement.
4. Representing You in Court
If necessary, your ADA lawyer will litigate the case in court, presenting a clear and strategic argument to advocate for your rights.
What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?
The ADA requires employers to make reasonable accommodations unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Accommodations might include:
• Modified work schedules
• Work-from-home options
• Accessible equipment or software
• Adjusted responsibilities
• Leave for treatment or recovery
If you’ve requested any of these and been ignored, delayed, or denied without justification, you may have a valid claim.
Why You Should Act Quickly
Time matters. The EEOC requires claims to be filed within 180 to 300 days from the date of discrimination, depending on your state. Waiting too long could forfeit your right to compensation or corrective action.
Additionally, taking swift legal action can help prevent the same employer from repeating the behavior with future employees.
Mineo Salcedo Law: Your Partner in ADA Employment Defense – Disability Discrimination at Work
At Mineo Salcedo Law, we understand how difficult it is to stand up against an employer—especially when you’re already managing the challenges of a disability. Our experienced ADA disability lawyers work tirelessly to hold employers accountable and restore fairness in the workplace.
Whether you’ve been denied accommodations, retaliated against, or wrongfully terminated, we’re here to support you from start to finish. Contact Mineo Salcedo Law today to schedule a confidential consultation with an ADA employment lawyer who knows how to fight for your rights and win. Call if you are facing any Disability Discrimination at Work at 954-463-8100 or fill out a form.
