New Jersey’s Law against Discrimination is a powerful tool to curb workplace discrimination. The Law against Discrimination, N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 – 49, became law in 1945 and has since been amended over the years to cover additional discriminatory practices. Currently, the law prevents employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital status, civil union status, among others. In addition to preventing discriminatory hiring and employment practices, the New Jersey Law against Discrimination intends to stop sexual harassment and situations that create a hostile work environment.
Unlike typical litigation where parties are expected to pay their own legal fees, the New Jersey Law against Discrimination has a fee shifting provision that allows the prevailing party to be awarded counsel fees. The fee shifting provision provides a powerful incentive for employers to prevent discriminatory or harassing conduct in the workplace.
At Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. we represent both employers in the defense of discrimination complaints and employees seeking to enforce their rights. If your company is facing a discrimination lawsuit or if you are an employee facing discrimination, contact one of our attorneys today to see how we can help you.