In today’s workforce, equal pay for equal work should be the standard. Unfortunately, many employees—especially women and people of color—still face wage disparities despite having the same qualifications, skills, and responsibilities as their counterparts. If you believe you’re not being paid fairly, it’s important to know your rights under state and federal laws. An experienced employment lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
What is Equal Pay Discrimination?
Equal pay discrimination occurs when an employer pays employees differently for performing substantially similar work based on gender, race, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics. The work doesn’t have to be identical, but it must involve similar responsibilities, effort, skill, and working conditions.
Laws Protecting Your Right to Equal Pay
Several laws protect employees from wage discrimination:
- The Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA): Prohibits wage discrimination based on sex for employees performing substantially equal work in the same establishment.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits pay discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
- The New Jersey Equal Pay Act: One of the strongest equal pay laws in the U.S., it protects against wage discrimination based on protected classes and requires equal pay for substantially similar work.
Common Examples of Equal Pay Violations
- Gender Pay Gap: Paying women less than men for performing the same or similar work.
- Race-Based Wage Disparities: Offering lower wages to employees of color compared to white employees in the same role.
- Unfair Bonus or Commission Structures: Providing unequal bonuses or commission rates based on protected characteristics.
- Denial of Promotions or Raises: Consistently overlooking certain employees for raises or promotions due to bias.
- Retaliation: Punishing an employee for inquiring about, discussing, or reporting wage disparities.
How to Determine If You’re a Victim of Wage Discrimination
If you suspect you’re being paid unfairly, consider the following questions:
- Are your job duties, responsibilities, and qualifications similar to those of colleagues who are paid more?
- Are you consistently denied raises or promotions despite strong performance?
- Do employees performing similar work with less experience or education earn more than you?
- Have you faced retaliation for discussing salary with co-workers?
What to Do If You Suspect Pay Discrimination
Taking the following steps can help you build a strong case if you believe you’re experiencing wage discrimination:
- Document Salary Discrepancies: Keep detailed records of your pay, job responsibilities, and any relevant communications regarding compensation.
- Compare Roles: Gather information on colleagues in similar roles to identify wage disparities.
- Review Company Policies: Check your employer’s compensation policies and procedures for inconsistencies.
- File a Complaint: If internal efforts don’t resolve the issue, you may need to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR).
- Consult an Employment Lawyer: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you secure the pay you deserve.
How an Employment Lawyer Can Help
Proving wage discrimination can be challenging, but an experienced employment lawyer can make a significant difference. They can:
- Analyze your job duties, compensation, and company records to identify wage disparities
- Help gather evidence to support your claim
- File legal complaints with the appropriate agencies or courts
- Negotiate settlements for back pay, lost wages, and emotional distress damages
- Represent you in litigation if necessary
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney?
When it comes to fighting wage discrimination, you need attorneys dedicated to Protecting Your Rights. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC has extensive experience representing employees facing pay discrimination in Egg Harbor Township and across New Jersey. Their legal team is committed to ensuring that employees receive fair compensation for their work.
Take Action Today—Don’t Let Pay Discrimination Go Unchallenged
If you believe you’re being paid unfairly, don’t hesitate to seek legal support. An experienced employment lawyer can help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Information
New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830, New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
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