{"id":357696,"date":"2016-04-04T10:45:23","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:45:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/gender-discrimination.html"},"modified":"2025-04-22T15:21:40","modified_gmt":"2025-04-22T20:21:40","slug":"gender-discrimination","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/gender-discrimination.html","title":{"rendered":"How to Prove a Workplace Gender Discrimination Claim"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\">\n        <h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How to Prove a Workplace Gender Discrimination Claim<\/h1>\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/balrina-ahluwalia-esq\/\">Balrina Ahluwalia, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            April 22, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>To prove a workplace gender discrimination claim, you must show you faced an adverse employment decision based on your sex, gender, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Sexual harassment is also a form of gender discrimination, but it has different elements. Filing a charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is often a necessary step before suing, and it&#8217;s important to meet their filing deadlines.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n<p>Perhaps you\u2019re sick of being mocked at work for being gay or trans. Or maybe you\u2019ve had enough of the boss always favoring female employees. You\u2019re likely wondering if these kinds of things add up to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/discrimination-and-harassment.html\"> discrimination or harassment<\/a>. And even if they do, what can you do about it? After all, you need your job.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you suspect you may be facing some type of gender-based discrimination at work, several rights and remedies may be available to you. It\u2019s highly advisable to touch base with an <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">employment attorney licensed in your state <\/a>to help you understand your options at this difficult time.<\/p>\r\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll explore how federal law treats these discrimination cases. But it&#8217;s essential to note that state anti-discrimination laws often provide additional protections for victims of gender-based employment discrimination.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Federal Workplace Discrimination Laws<\/h2>\r\n<p>Federal law primarily governs workplace discrimination claims. Two key federal laws, enforced by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eeoc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission<\/a> (EEOC), are Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Pay Act of 1963.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Title VII<\/h3>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/title-vii-of-the-civil-rights-act-of-1964-equal-employment.html\">Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964<\/a> (Title VII) prohibits <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/employment-discrimination.html\">employment discrimination<\/a> based on several protected classes. These include:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Race<\/li>\r\n<li>Color<\/li>\r\n<li>Religion<\/li>\r\n<li>Sex<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/national-origin-discrimination.html\">National origin<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>&quot;Sex&quot; generally refers to the biological sex one is assigned at birth. However, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/gender-discrimination-u-s-supreme-court-cases.html\">Supreme Court<\/a> has interpreted Title VII\u2019s ban on sex discrimination to include discrimination based on pregnancy, gender, gender identity, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/sexual-orientation-discrimination-in-the-workplace.html\">sexual orientation<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>Gender refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, and attributes that society associates with men, women, and non-binary individuals. Non-binary is a gender identity that doesn\u2019t fit within the traditional categories of male or female.<\/p>\r\n<p>Gender identity is a person&#8217;s internal sense of their own gender. This may be male, female, a blend of both, neither, or something else entirely. A person\u2019s gender identity may be different from their sex.<\/p>\r\n<p>Sexual orientation refers to the gender or sex to which someone is attracted.<\/p>\r\n<h3>The Equal Pay Act<\/h3>\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/equal-pay-act-of-1963.html\">Equal Pay Act of 1963<\/a> specifically addresses pay discrimination based on sex. It mandates that female and male employees receive equal pay for equal work,<\/p>\r\n<p>So, now that we understand that workplace gender discrimination is illegal, let\u2019s examine what it is.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Workplace Gender Discrimination<\/h2>\r\n<p>Workplace <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/sex-gender-discrimination-overview.html\">\u201cgender discrimination\u201d and workplace \u201csex discrimination\u201d<\/a> are often used interchangeably. They refer to the unfair treatment of an employee or job applicant because of their sex, pregnancy, gender, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/gay-and-lesbian-rights-sexual-orientation-discrimination.html\">gender identity, or sexual orientation<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>As such, workplace <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/gender-discrimination.html\">gender discrimination<\/a> can take many forms. It might include:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Paying employees differently for the same work based on their gender<\/li>\r\n<li>Favoring one gender identity over another for advancement opportunities<\/li>\r\n<li>Preferring one job applicant over another during the hiring process because of potential pregnancy<\/li>\r\n<li>Giving better performance evaluations or privileges of employment to certain employees because of their sex<\/li>\r\n<li>Assigning job duties or projects based on gender stereotypes<\/li>\r\n<li>Co-workers harassing an employee because of their sexual orientation<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Sexual harassment is also a type of workplace gender discrimination.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Sexual Harassment<\/h3>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/sexual-harassment-what-is-it.html\">Sexual harassment<\/a> involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It can range from the use of sexist slurs to making sexual acts a condition of employment. This type of gender-based harassment can create an intimidating or hostile work environment.<\/p>\r\n<h2>What Can You Do?<\/h2>\r\n<p>Now that we have a better idea of what discriminatory employment practices might look like, let\u2019s look at some measures you might take. If you suspect you might be facing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/sex-gender-discrimination-overview.html\">gender discrimination at work<\/a> or as a job applicant:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Review the employee handbook and any internal anti-discrimination policies and procedures<\/li>\r\n<li>Document incidents, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses<\/li>\r\n<li>Gather evidence like emails or text messages<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>It\u2019s highly likely that unlawful discriminatory practices also violate the employer\u2019s policies. As such, you\u2019ll often have access to procedures for internal resolution.<\/p>\r\n<p>However, you may want to touch base with an employment or gender discrimination lawyer first. They may advise you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/filing-discrimination-charges-with-the-eeoc.html\">file a charge with the EEOC<\/a> before attempting to resolve the issue internally. This could be for several reasons, including:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><b>Time sensitivity:<\/b> You generally have 180 (in some cases 300) days after the alleged violation to file with the EEOC.<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Severe discrimination:<\/b> In cases of severe or ongoing discrimination, immediate external action may be needed to prevent further harm.<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Retaliation concerns:<\/b> If you fear retaliation from the employer for reporting the discrimination internally, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/filing-an-eeoc-complaint-or-charge.html\">filing directly with the EEOC<\/a> can provide protection.<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Lack of trust:<\/b> If you believe the internal complaint process is biased or ineffective, going directly to the EEOC might be a better option.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Properly filing an EEOC charge also preserves your right to sue, if necessary.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Filing an EEOC Charge<\/h2>\r\n<p>For most workplace discrimination claims, you\u2019ll need to file a charge with the EEOC before you can bring a federal discrimination <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/legal-help-and-resources\/-can-i-sue-my-employer-.html\">lawsuit against the employer<\/a>. You don\u2019t have to prove your case with the EEOC. But you will need to provide a signed statement asserting that the employer engaged in discriminatory practices.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you file a charge after the deadline, you may lose your right to sue.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you file on time, the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/eeoc-s-charge-processing-procedures.html\"> EEOC will likely investigate your claims<\/a>. It may try to resolve the matter between you and the employer through mediation or conciliation. In some cases, the EEOC may sue the employer on your behalf. Alternatively, it may issue a letter giving you the right to sue.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Elements of a Workplace Gender Discrimination Claim<\/h2>\r\n<p>Whether you\u2019re making your case internally, in court, or through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/alternative-dispute-resolution.html\">alternative resolution methods<\/a>, you\u2019ll want to understand the elements of a workplace discrimination claim. These are the essential components an employee\/job applicant must prove to establish a valid case. They include:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><b>Membership in a protected class:<\/b> In this case, sex, gender, gender identity, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/pregnancy-discrimination.html\">pregnancy<\/a>, or sexual orientation<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Adverse employment decision\/action:<\/b> Such as termination, rejection, and unequal pay<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Qualification: <\/b>You were qualified for the item in question, like a position or promotion<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Circumstances suggesting discrimination:<\/b> May be shown through various means, such as discriminatory remarks or more favorable treatment of qualified individuals outside the protected class<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>In a lawsuit, the plaintiff needs to establish these elements with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/evidence-law.html\">evidence<\/a>. Direct evidence of discrimination is rare, so plaintiffs often use circumstantial evidence, such as patterns of behavior or statistical evidence.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you\u2019re able to establish these elements, the burden of proof then shifts to the employer. This means the employer must provide a legitimate, non-discriminatory reason for the adverse action. If it does, you must then prove that the employer&#8217;s reason is a pretext for discrimination. A pretext is a false or misleading reason given to cover up the true motive behind an action.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Elements of a Sexual Harassment Claim<\/h2>\r\n<p>While sexual harassment is a form of gender discrimination, it has different elements. This is because it involves specific behaviors\/impacts that require distinct legal considerations.<\/p>\r\n<p>Remember, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/what-is-quid-pro-quo-harassment.html\">sexual harassment can be the quid pro quo type<\/a>, where job benefits are conditioned on sexual favors. It can also take the form of a hostile work environment, where the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.<\/p>\r\n<p>Plaintiffs in sexual harassment cases must show:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><b>Membership in a protected class:<\/b> Based on sex, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, or sexual orientation<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Unwelcome harassment:<\/b> Undesirable or offensive conduct that wasn\u2019t invited or solicited<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Based on sex:<\/b> Conduct based on the plaintiff&#8217;s protected class<\/li>\r\n<li><b>Employer liability:<\/b> Employer knew\/should have known about the harassment and failed to take appropriate action<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>As with other gender discrimination claims, the burden shifts to the employer after you\u2019ve established these elements. It should come as no surprise that skilled legal representation can greatly improve your chances of success.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2>State Law<\/h2>\r\n<p>Pursuing the remedies available to you at both the federal and state levels can be advantageous. In many cases, state law offers broader protections than federal law.<\/p>\r\n<p>For example,<a href=\"https:\/\/calcivilrights.ca.gov\/employment\/#:~:text=The%20Fair%20Employment%20and%20Housing%20Act%20(FEHA)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> California\u2019s Fair Employment and Housing Act <\/a>(FEHA) and <a href=\"https:\/\/dhr.ny.gov\/new-york-state-human-rights-law\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New York\u2019s Human Rights Law<\/a> apply to small employers who are exempt from Title VII. So, you\u2019ll want to speak with a lawyer who\u2019s experienced and familiar with your state\u2019s laws and protections.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Legal Guidance<\/h2>\r\n<p>If you\u2019ve faced gender discrimination as an employee or job applicant, you have rights. But navigating this legal landscape can be challenging. It\u2019s highly advisable to enlist the help of a discrimination or employment attorney licensed in your state. You can share your specific situation with them confidentially. They can help you understand your options so that you can determine the best way to proceed.<\/p>\r\n<p>Fortunately, identifying qualified attorneys in your area is easy. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Findlaw\u2019s dedicated directory of discrimination attorneys<\/a>, as well as its <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of employment attorneys<\/a>, provides you with plenty of options. Just click on your state and narrow your search results by city. You\u2019ll instantly be connected with ratings and contact information for local experts. If you&#8217;ve experienced gender discrimination, consider reaching out to an attorney right away. A trusted advocate may be your most important ally at this consequential time.<\/p>\r\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <\/div>\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\">\n        <div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some employment legal issues can be solved without an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex employment law cases (such as harassment or discrimination) need the help of an attorney to protect your interests\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Legal cases for wage and benefit issues, whistleblower actions, or workplace safety can be complicated and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL17\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/the-lilly-ledbetter-fair-pay-act.html\">\n                        What Is the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/lgbtq-law\/what-to-do-if-you-re-lgbtq-and-face-microaggressions-in-the-wor.html\">\n                        LGBTQ Microaggressions and Discrimination in the Workplace\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/employment-discrimination\/pregnancy-discrimination.html\">\n                        Pregnancy Discrimination Laws in the Workplace\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/civil-rights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Civil Rights Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/sexual-harassment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sexual Harassment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/same-sex\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Same Sex Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/constitutional-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Constitutional Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Gender discrimination by co-workers can create hostile work environments. Learn about EEOC and other remedies for gender-based workplace discrimination on FindLaw. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":357676,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2739],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-357696","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-employment"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357696","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=357696"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357696\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357676"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=357696"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=357696"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=357696"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=357696"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=357696"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}