What types of damages can I recover in an employment discrimination claim?
Several different kinds of damages are available to an employee who files a successful claim for unlawful discrimination in the workplace. The damages awarded in California employment lawsuits are categorized as economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages refer to losses with a monetary value that can be readily quantified. Some examples include compensation for medical expenses, past and future lost earnings, benefits, job retraining costs and attorney’s fees.
Non-economic damages consist of intangible losses that an employee has suffered because of workplace discrimination. This type of compensation can include emotional distress, mental anguish or loss of life enjoyment.
In California, in certain employment discrimination cases, an employee may be eligible to obtain punitive damages. They are awarded to punish an employer for reckless and malicious conduct. However, punitive damages are rare and require a high threshold of convincing evidence.
The total damages you recover in a discrimination claim depend on many factors. A knowledgeable Oakland employment law attorney can help you determine the amount of compensation you may be eligible to receive in a lawsuit. If you have experienced discrimination at work, contact Erlich Law Firm to discuss your situation with a lawyer.
Other Discrimination & Harassment FAQs:
- Are temporary employees able to file discrimination claims?
- My boss yells at me all the time. Do I have a case?
- What are some examples of an adverse employment action?
- What is the California Fair Employment and Housing Act?
- What to do if you feel you have suffered discrimination?
- What type of compensation is available in a discrimination claim?
- What types of damages can I recover in an employment discrimination claim?
- Why do I need a lawyer for my discrimination claim?
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