Fremont Disability Discrimination Lawyer
Top Rated Disability Discrimination Attorney in Fremont, CA
When you’re at work performing your job, you should never have to worry about being discriminated against. Unfortunately, it still happens frequently throughout the state. California’s comprehensive and protective labor laws make it illegal for an employer to discriminate against somebody because of their protected traits, including their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and disability. A Fremont disability discrimination lawyer can help you build a case.
The legal team at Valerian Law, P.C. knows how devastating a case like this can be. There’s nothing wrong with wanting your employer to face disability discrimination penalties for what they’ve put you through. A Fremont disability discrimination attorney can help you work through the state’s disability discrimination laws and seek accountability. Our team has years of employment law experience that we can devote to your situation. We know how to help you.
Disability Discrimination in California
If you decide to move forward with legal action against your employer in a disability discrimination case in Fremont, then your case is most likely handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Alameda. This is the court that handles the majority of civil claims for Alameda County. Disability discrimination cases are not rare in California. In 2025, there were 2,066 disability discrimination claims made with the EEOC in California alone.
It’s also important to remember that while California remains an at-will employment state, your employer cannot just fire you for any reason. If you are fired because of your disability or out of retaliation for reporting discriminatory behavior, you may have a strong case. You should hire a disability discrimination lawyer to help you build that case. In 2023, there were 18 reported hate crimes in California that were motivated by the victim’s physical or mental disability.
What to Do in a Discrimination Case
If you are discriminated against at work because of your disability, it’s vital to your eventual claim that you handle it the right way. You may not even be immediately aware that you’re being discriminated against, as it can sometimes be subtle or framed in ways that seem like normal behavior. If you even suspect disability discrimination, you should start documenting it and preparing for a case. Here are some steps you can take in a discrimination case that can help:
- Document everything. The most important thing you can have in a discrimination case is evidence. You need to be able to prove the discrimination, as well as your employer’s response to your claim. Save copies of all relevant emails, texts, memos, voicemails, performance reviews, accommodation requests, and meeting notes. You can never have too much evidence in a case like this.
- Report internally. Every company has its own preferred methods of handling complaints. You should consult your employee handbook to find out how your company does it. You may have to report to either your direct supervisor or your H.R. department. Send a very clear, concise, and factual written report of the incident to the right people. Leave nothing out and provide evidence.Â
- Report externally. If your company ignores the complaint or does nothing about it, you should escalate. First, you should consult with an employment lawyer to find out what your options are. You should file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- Take legal action. Once you file with the CRD or the EEOC, they’ll launch an investigation into your claim. If successful, they’ll send you a right-to-sue notice, which allows you to move forward with legal action against your company. You can’t pursue a legal case unless you receive that notice from the CRD or EEOC.
FAQs
FAQS DISCLAIMER
The questions and answers presented in the FAQ are not intended to be exhaustive and do not constitute legal advice for your particular question, issue, or concern, nor does this FAQ create any attorney-client relationship or duty on our part to assist you. The information may help you think about your issues and ask the right questions if you choose to consult with an attorney.
Is Disability Discrimination Hard to Prove?
Yes, disability discrimination can be hard to prove. That’s why it’s so important to gather and preserve evidence. Your company may be making an effort to suppress your evidence. Evidence that shows your company’s intent to discriminate against you or deny your accommodation request out of bias or malice can often be the deciding factor in a case like yours. Your lawyer can help you build a strong case, but you can’t do that without strong evidence.
Can an Employer Ask What My Disability Is?
No, your employer generally cannot ask you what your disability is. They cannot legally ask you if you have a disability, inquire about its severity, or demand your medical records as proof. They can only ask you if you can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations. If you want to, you can tell your employer as much or as little as you want about your disability.
What Is an Example of Disability Discrimination?
There are many different workplace situations that can be viewed as disability discrimination. One example would be refusing to hire a qualified applicant due to a physical impairment, such as being in a wheelchair or being deaf. The employer is automatically assuming that the applicant is incapable of doing the job, which may not be true at all. All that should matter is the fact that they are qualified for the position.Â
Should I Hire a Disability Discrimination Lawyer?
Yes, you should hire a disability discrimination lawyer. Moving forward with a discrimination case against your employer can be emotionally draining. This whole situation can show you a side of your employer you may have never seen before. You may be reluctant to even complain out of fear of losing your job. An experienced lawyer can spearhead your case, gather evidence, and handle all communication with your company. A lawyer may be a necessity here.
Be Sure to Hire a Disability Discrimination Lawyer
When you’re discriminated against at work, it can make you feel small, undervalued, and weak. No employer should have the power to make their workers feel like that. Seeking accountability for such treatment is an appropriate response, and a good lawyer can help you make a strong case. At Valerian Law, P.C., we know how to help and we know what you need. Contact us to speak with someone about your case.
