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Last Modified on Jul 14, 2026
California’s workplace discrimination laws and penalties have an impact on both employees who are victims of unfair treatment and on employers who are held accountable to state and federal laws. Often, employees or potential employees will have questions about the kinds of behavior that are illegal discrimination, the penalties for breaking the law, and the rights that employees have after being discriminated against.
Understanding the legal framework can help individuals recognize potential concerns and make informed decisions when employment disputes occur.
Hire a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer
Our employment lawyers at Law Offices of Reisner & King LLP have been protecting employees’ rights in California since 1999. We handle cases involving employment discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and other employment law violations.
We are committed to protecting employee rights through individualized legal advocacy designed for each client’s situation. From negotiation to litigation, our attorneys work with employees to hold companies accountable and pursue remedies available under California law.
What Is Workplace Discrimination Under California Law?
In California, an employer may not base employment decisions on protected characteristics instead of an individual’s qualifications, experience, or job performance. California’s primary antidiscrimination statute is the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, California Government Code § 12940, which applies to employers with five or more employees.
Under FEHA, employers are forbidden from discriminating against employees due to their race, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, military or veteran status, or any of several other characteristics protected by law. An employee who suffers unlawful discrimination may be able to assert legal claims under California law.
Examples of Prohibited Workplace Discrimination
An employer can discriminate against workers at almost any stage in the employment process. California law may be violated if the employer refuses to hire a qualified applicant based on a protected characteristic, withholds promotions for discriminatory reasons, pays employees differently because of a protected characteristic, or disciplines certain workers more harshly.
Discrimination can also include wrongfully terminating a worker, unlawful harassment, retaliation against workers who report discrimination, or failing to accommodate qualified workers with a disability or a sincerely held religious belief.
What Penalties Can Employers Face for Workplace Discrimination?
Employers found liable for unlawful workplace discrimination may be required to pay back pay, front pay, emotional distress damages, attorney’s fees, costs, and, in some circumstances, punitive damages.
A court may also order equitable relief such as reinstatement, promotion, and revision of personnel policies and workplace training. Employees may seek civil remedies under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, following applicable administrative prerequisites.
What Should Employees Do if They Experience Workplace Discrimination?
Employees who believe they have been victims of workplace discrimination should save any documents, emails, text messages, employee performance reviews, or other records that might pertain to the events. It is also useful to keep a timeline of the events and names of potential witnesses.
Most workplace discrimination claims must first be filed with the California Civil Rights Department before a civil legal claim may proceed. Claims are subject to the procedural and timing requirements of California Government Code § 12960. Contacting an experienced employment attorney can assist employees in understanding their rights, evaluating potential claims, and determining the most appropriate course of action.
FAQs
How Common Are Workplace Discrimination Charges?
Workplace discrimination claims continue to be a widespread issue in the United States. In fiscal year 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received 88,531 new discrimination charges. Employees who believe they have experienced unlawful workplace discrimination should take complaints seriously and understand the legal protections that may be available under state and federal law.
Can an Employer Be Required to Pay Damages for Workplace Discrimination?
An employer who breaks California or federal employment discrimination laws may have to pay an affected employee, depending on the circumstances. During fiscal year 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission secured more than $700 million for slightly less than 21,000 people by administrative enforcement, mediation, settlements, and litigation, in cases involving claims of workplace discrimination.
Can Independent Contractors Sue for Workplace Discrimination in California?
An independent contractor may have the ability to bring a claim for workplace discrimination in California, depending on the law that applies and the facts surrounding the working relationship.
Anti-discrimination protections under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act may apply to certain workers who do not fall within the traditional definition of employee. An attorney can review the facts regarding worker classification to determine what laws may apply and what legal remedies may be available.
Where Are Workplace Discrimination Cases Handled in Los Angeles County?
Los Angeles County employees can sometimes bring a claim for workplace discrimination in more than one forum. In some cases, depending on the facts and after any necessary administrative steps have been taken, an employee might file a claim in the Stanley Mosk Courthouse or in a different court of law. An attorney can advise as to the correct forum and how the filing process would work in a specific case.
How Long Do Workplace Discrimination Cases Typically Take?
The length of workplace discrimination cases varies depending on the complexity of the dispute, the administrative process, court schedules, and whether the parties reach a settlement. Some claims resolve sooner than others, while more complicated cases may take longer.
A workplace discrimination attorney can explain the expected timeline and how California workplace discrimination penalties may affect the overall case strategy.
Contact a California Workplace Discrimination Lawyer
Workplace discrimination can impact a person’s wages, career, professional reputation, and overall well-being. California law affords key protections, though an employee may face strict filing requirements, must have detailed evidence, and may encounter complex legal standards in seeking relief.
At Law Offices of Reisner & King LLP, we represent employees who have been discriminated against, retaliated against, harassed, and otherwise subjected to unlawful workplace conduct. We can evaluate your circumstances, discuss legal options that may be available, and assist in determining next steps. Schedule a consultation today to hire a workplace discrimination lawyer.
