Sacramento Religious Discrimination Attorneys

Premium Advocacy for the Covered in Sacramento & Beyond

At Polaris Law Group, we believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment where they can freely express and practice their religious beliefs without fear of discrimination or harassment. Religious discrimination is illegal, and our team is dedicated to helping individuals in Sacramento protect their rights and seek justice when they experience unfair treatment in the workplace. Our experienced Sacramento religious discrimination lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that you receive the support and advocacy you deserve.

To learn more about how we can stand up for your rights and protect your best interests, contact our firm by dialing (888) 796-4010.

What is Religious Discrimination?

Religious discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfairly or unequally in the workplace due to their religious beliefs, practices, or lack of religious beliefs. Under both federal and California law, employers are prohibited from making employment decisions based on an employee’s religion. This includes hiring, firing, promotions, benefits, and any other condition of employment. Additionally, employers are required to reasonably accommodate an employee’s religious practices unless doing so would create an undue hardship for the company.

Religious discrimination can affect individuals from any background, whether they follow a specific religion, observe a particular set of beliefs, or choose not to adhere to any religion at all. When an employer or co-worker takes action that violates these protections, it may be considered religious discrimination.

Common Examples of Religious Discrimination

Religious discrimination can manifest in many forms, from overt acts to more subtle behavior. Here are some common examples of religious discrimination that our clients have faced:

• Refusal to Hire or Promote Based on Religion: Employers are prohibited from making employment decisions based on an applicant or employee’s religious beliefs or practices. Refusing to hire or promote someone solely due to their religion is discriminatory and illegal.
• Harassment Due to Religious Beliefs: Harassment related to religion can include offensive remarks, jokes, or slurs about someone’s beliefs or practices. Even if not direct, a pattern of inappropriate comments or ridicule can create a hostile work environment.
• Denial of Religious Accommodations: Employees may need accommodations to observe religious practices, such as flexible scheduling for prayer times or dietary accommodations. Employers must provide these accommodations unless they would create an undue hardship on the business.
• Requiring Participation in Religious Activities: Forcing an employee to take part in religious activities or prohibiting participation in religious observances can also constitute religious discrimination. Employees have the right to abstain from religious events that conflict with their beliefs.
• Unfair Disciplinary Action or Termination: Disciplinary actions based on religious practices, such as taking time off for a religious holiday, can be a sign of discrimination if the employer does not have a legitimate business reason for the action.

State & Federal Protections from Religious Discrimination

In California, religious discrimination is prohibited by both federal and state laws. Knowing these protections can help you understand your rights and how best to pursue justice with the help of an experienced attorney.

Federal Protections: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

The primary federal law protecting employees from religious discrimination is Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees and makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate based on religion in hiring, firing, promotions, pay, job assignments, and other employment terms. Under Title VII, employers are also required to make reasonable accommodations for employees' religious beliefs, unless doing so would cause undue hardship.

California State Protections: California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)

California offers additional protections through the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which applies to employers with five or more employees. FEHA not only prohibits religious discrimination but also mandates that employers take steps to prevent harassment based on religion and accommodate employees' religious practices unless it causes undue hardship. Under FEHA, employees in California have robust rights and options for legal recourse if they experience religious discrimination.

If you believe your employer has violated either Title VII or FEHA, it is crucial to consult with a Sacramento religious discrimination lawyer who understands both federal and state laws to determine the best course of action for your situation.

Contact us today to find out more about our helpful services.