If you have a health condition, you could be protected against discrimination under federal and California law – but not everyone with a medical condition is considered disabled. Here’s what you need to know before you call a Glendale employment discrimination lawyer.
Discrimination for a Medical Condition
Unfortunately, some employers discriminate against people who have medical conditions. In order for the law to protect you, your condition must be recognized as a disability. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a person who has a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of that type of impairment, or is regarded as having that type of impairment.
The ADA “prohibits discrimination in all employment practices, including job application procedures, hiring, firing, advancement, compensation, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. It applies to recruitment, advertising, tenure, layoff, leave, fringe benefits, and all other employment-related activities.”
An employer, if you have a medical condition that counts as a disability, cannot fail to hire you or promote you because of your condition. It can’t terminate you because of your disability, either, unless you’re putting other employees at risk. Additionally, your employer has to provide you with reasonable accommodations that help you perform your job’s essential functions.
Impairments That Limit Major Life Activities
There’s a difference between minor impairments and substantial impairments, which can mean the distinction between discrimination and acceptable employer behavior. The impairments must limit major life activities, such as:
- Breathing
- Caring for oneself
- Learning
- Performing manual tasks
- Seeing hearing
- Speaking
- Walking
What if You Were Discriminated Against for Having a Medical Condition?
If you believe you were discriminated against for having a medical condition, you may have legal recourse – and it might be a good idea to get in touch with a Glendale discrimination lawyer as soon as possible.
Call us at 818-805-6145 for a free case evaluation now. We may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.
