Employees with disabilities are entitled to fair treatment and equal opportunity in the workplace. Unfortunately, disability discrimination remains a serious problem across California. Employers sometimes deny reasonable accommodations, overlook qualified candidates, or even retaliate against workers who assert their rights.
At Huprich Law, we believe every employee deserves a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace. If you’ve faced discrimination because of a disability, we are here to stand with you.
Disability discrimination happens when an employer treats a qualified worker unfavorably because of a physical or mental disability, medical condition, or perceived impairment.
Refusing to hire a qualified applicant due to their disability.
Denying promotions or raises because of health limitations.
Harassing an employee about their condition.
Failing to provide reasonable accommodations such as modified schedules, accessible workstations, or medical leave.
Terminating an employee after they disclose a disability.
Even if you are capable of performing your job with or without reasonable accommodations, your employer cannot legally discriminate against you.
California employees are protected under both federal and state laws:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – A federal law that prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in employment.
California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) – Extends strong protections for workers in California, often broader than federal law.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) / California Family Rights Act (CFRA) – Provide leave protections for certain medical conditions.
These laws require employers to treat employees fairly and engage in an interactive process to determine reasonable accommodations.
One of the most common issues in disability discrimination cases involves reasonable accommodations. Employers are required to provide adjustments that allow a disabled employee to perform their job, unless doing so would cause “undue hardship.”
Modified work schedules or remote work.
Ergonomic equipment or accessible office spaces.
Job restructuring or reassignment.
Medical leave or extended break times.
Assistive technology or interpreters.
If your employer refuses to discuss accommodations or dismisses your requests without consideration, they may be violating the law.
Disability discrimination isn’t limited to hiring or promotions. It can also appear in the form of harassment, such as:
Offensive comments about your disability.
Being mocked for medical needs or equipment (wheelchairs, hearing aids, etc.).
Exclusion from meetings or projects due to assumptions about your capabilities.
These behaviors can create a hostile work environment, which is also illegal.
It is unlawful for employers to retaliate against workers who assert their rights. Retaliation may include:
Demotion or loss of hours after requesting accommodations.
Negative performance reviews following a disability disclosure.
Wrongful termination after filing a complaint.
Retaliation cases are often easier to prove because of the timing and pattern of adverse actions.
Document the incidents – Keep detailed notes, emails, and medical records.
Request accommodations in writing – This creates a clear record of your needs.
Report the issue internally – Notify HR or your supervisor.
File an EEOC or CRD complaint – These agencies investigate discrimination claims.
Consult a disability discrimination lawyer – An attorney can evaluate your case and represent your interests.
Employers often try to justify their actions with excuses like “undue hardship” or “lack of qualifications.” An experienced attorney can cut through these defenses by:
Gathering documentation and witness testimony.
Demonstrating you are a qualified employee.
Proving the employer failed to engage in the interactive process.
Pursuing compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
At Huprich Law, we have the knowledge and dedication to fight for employees whose rights have been violated.
Our firm represents clients across Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire. Wherever you live or work, you deserve equal treatment.
If you’ve faced workplace bias in Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, Highland Park, Montebello, San Marino, Alhambra, Rosemead, Monterey Park, or El Monte, we can help you hold your employer accountable.
Disabled employees in Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, Burbank, and Tujunga are protected under California law. We represent workers across these areas.
If you’re located in Ontario, Chino, Claremont, La Verne, Montclair, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, San Dimas, Upland, Charter Oak, Covina, Fontana, Glendora, Monrovia, Baldwin Park, or Azusa, our firm is ready to advocate for your rights.
No matter where you live, disability discrimination is against the law.
If your rights have been violated, you may be entitled to compensation such as:
Back pay and lost wages.
Front pay if reinstatement isn’t possible.
Compensatory damages for emotional suffering.
Punitive damages when the employer’s conduct was egregious.
Coverage of attorney’s fees and costs.
Every case is unique, but a skilled lawyer can maximize the outcome.
You have the right to fair treatment at work — and the law is on your side. Don’t let fear or uncertainty stop you from taking action.
At Huprich Law, we proudly represent employees across Southern California in disability discrimination cases. Whether you were denied accommodations, harassed, or wrongfully terminated, we are here to fight for justice.
