New Jersey Religious Discrimination Lawyers
In the United States, we pride ourselves on our diversity. Our society is comprised of people from all walks of life who have the right to worship in their own way and to hold their own personal beliefs without fear of persecution or prejudice. When so many religions and beliefs interact with each other, however, there is a possibility that conflict may arise.
Discrimination due to religion and creed is prohibited by NJ Law
New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) prohibits any form of discrimination based upon religion and/or creed whether it takes place in employment, business transactions, or places of public accommodation. The law not only protects the major religions such as Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and others, but also protects Atheists as well. It also prohibits discrimination based on an employee’s relationship with a member of a religion (ie. a spouse), or one’s perceived belief system and religion. However, it must be noted that law does not protect an individual’s right to practice a belief system that would break other laws such as those prohibiting racial or gender discrimination.
The law ensures that everyone, irrespective of their religion, will have an even playing field in connection with employment. It is illegal for an employer to refuse to hire you, subject you to different terms, or even fire you based on your religion or creed. During the hiring process, it is also illegal for the employer to ask you questions about your religion, creed or affiliations. Also, if you are being subjected to conditions or terms that make it difficult for you to follow your religion or beliefs, you may have legal recourse.
Further, it is also illegal to subject you to workplace harassment or religious slurs. It is also required that the employer provides accommodation for people that is necessary for them to follow their religion, such as providing a follower of Islam an appropriate place to pray in accordance with the dictates of his or her faith.
LAD also protects women who are pregnant and are discriminated against by their employer.
Contact our New Jersey religious discrimination lawyers
Aiello, Harris, Abate, Law Group PC has a hard-earned reputation for successfully representing individuals who have faced religious discrimination. If we prevail in your case you may be entitled to equitable relief, back pay to compensate you for lost earnings, front pay to compensate for a pay differential resulting from the discrimination, injunctive relief to correct your employer’s discriminatory practices, or reinstatement to any position that you lost as a result of discrimination. Find out if you have a case today, your initial consultation is free. Call us at (908) 561-5577 or contact us online.