San Francisco Religious Discrimination and Harassment Lawyers
Religious Discrimination and Harassment Attorneys in San Francisco
What Counts as Religious Discrimination?
Religious discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of their religious beliefs, practices, or affiliation. This includes not only major organized religions but also sincerely held personal beliefs. In California, employees are protected by the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), while federal protections fall under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Both laws make it illegal to discriminate or harass workers because of their faith.
Examples include:
- Denying reasonable accommodations for religious holidays or observances.
- Refusing to adjust work schedules when it would not cause undue hardship.
- Harassing employees with derogatory remarks or creating a hostile work environment.
- Denying promotions, demoting, or firing someone because of their religion.
- Refusing to hire a qualified candidate due to their religious background.
Our San Francisco religious discrimination attorneys have the knowledge and experience to evaluate your case and guide you through your legal options.
Discrimination Against Muslims and Other Religions
Since September 11, discrimination against Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim—including individuals of Middle Eastern descent—has risen significantly. At Lawless, Lawless & McGrath, we represent clients who have experienced Islamophobia in the workplace, as well as individuals from a wide range of faiths who have been denied opportunities, harassed, or retaliated against because of their beliefs. Religious discrimination can affect people of all backgrounds, from Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism to smaller or less well-known faiths. No matter your religion, you are entitled to equal treatment under the law.
What to Do If You Experience Religious Harassment
Being harassed or targeted because of your religion is unacceptable. If this happens in the workplace, take these steps:
- Report the conduct immediately to your supervisor, Human Resources, or the department designated in your employee handbook.
- Document incidents including dates, times, witnesses, and the specific behavior.
- Preserve evidence such as emails, text messages, or other communications.
- Contact an experienced religious harassment lawyer to understand your rights and filing deadlines.
Our attorneys will help you document your claim, protect yourself from retaliation, and pursue every available legal remedy.
Compensation for Religious Discrimination
If you have suffered discrimination or harassment based on religion, you may be entitled to:
- Back pay for lost wages.
- Front pay if reinstatement is not possible.
- Compensation for emotional distress caused by discrimination.
- Punitive damages in cases of willful or malicious misconduct.
If you were wrongfully terminated or denied a job, we will fight to secure the difference between what you earn now and the pay you should have received. Our employment attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who are ready to pursue your case inside and outside the courtroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to belong to an organized religion to be protected?
No. California and federal law protect sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, whether part of an organized religion or personal faith.
What if I was discriminated against for how I dress for religious reasons?
Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for religious dress or grooming practices, unless doing so creates undue hardship. Denying these accommodations may be illegal.
Can my employer retaliate if I complain about religious discrimination?
No. Both FEHA and Title VII prohibit retaliation for reporting religious discrimination or harassment, whether internally or to a government agency.
What should I do if a coworker is harassing me about my religion?
Document the incidents, report the harassment to HR or your supervisor, and consult a San Francisco religious discrimination lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Why Choose Lawless, Lawless & McGrath?
- 80+ years of combined employment law experience.
- Recognized by Super Lawyers and the Lawdragon 500 Leading Civil Rights & Plaintiff Employment Lawyers.
- Deep experience in workplace discrimination, retaliation, and harassment cases.
- Dedicated, client-focused representation with a proven record of success.
Contact a Religious Discrimination Attorney in San Francisco
If you have been discriminated against or harassed because of your religion, you do not have to face your employer alone. The San Francisco religious discrimination lawyers at Lawless, Lawless & McGrath are here to protect your rights, secure compensation, and hold wrongdoers accountable. Call (415) 391-7555 or contact us online today for a confidential consultation.