Restaurant Discrimination Defense Attorneys in Los Angeles
Restaurants across Los Angeles have defied the odds and challenges presented during the pandemic. There is still a long way to go for normalcy, but most restaurants are doing just fine. Though it could take years before favored eateries are fully staffed again, owners have a plan in place to at least get through the busy winter months. However, minor changes in management, hours, even staff should not be discriminatory and biased.
Servers, chefs, even vendors and suppliers are owed reasonable working conditions. Though it is not always provided to them. A new study released by U.C. Berkeley and U.C. Santa Cruz reveals key findings behind California’s restaurant industry. Women and minorities are most likely to be subjected to discrimination. In this article we further explain and detail what this means for you and when to reach out to an employee rights attorney for restaurant workers.
What Is Workplace Discrimination?
Employment discrimination is a state of prejudice based on one’s protected status like gender, race, age, or national origin. Because it can take on more than one form, it’s imperative to look out for disparate treatment from an employer. We share some examples below to help gauge your understanding.
- Race – Suppose an employer begins treating workers of a different racial background differently. It can go as far as discrimination of skin tone, ethnicity, or physical characteristics. You have a right to file an internal complaint about racial harassment.
- Age – Treating any employee or applicant differently due to their age is illegal. In California we abide by federal and state anti-age discrimination laws. Workers over 40 have additional protections.
- Gender – Federal and state laws protect all workers from gender discrimination. How someone identifies does not warrant an employer to treat them based on their own beliefs or values.
- Pregnancy – Are you expecting? Employers are barred from firing, demoting, or laying off pregnant workers or employees who’ve recently given birth.
The Impact on Women and Minorities
Based on a recent study, white men in the restaurant industry have earned the highest wages in California. Women and minorities, on the other hand, only receive a fraction of what they make. Part of the reason is that they are not offered the same job roles or granted the same opportunities to excel. The study also discovered the following:
- In California, white male restaurant workers are paid an average of $14.18. For others, the average pay is roughly $11.63.
- Women earn less. In California, the average hourly wage for white women is $11.30; and $10.13 for non-white women.
- White employees – primarily male, filled 80% of management positions. Whereas minorities tend to have jobs considered “back of house positions.” Front-of-house positions from servers and guest-facing staff tend to earn more.
Should I Reach Out to A Discrimination Attorney?
Suppose you feel you’ve been the victim of your employer’s wrongdoings. In that case, you’re likely to ask one of two questions: “Can I sue for racial discrimination against a California restaurant?” or “can I sue for gender discrimination if I work at a restaurant?”
Yes – you have every right to bring a lawsuit against them. At The Law Offices of Mann & Elias, our employment attorney is here and ready to take your call. You deserve strong legal representation to go against restaurant owners or negligent employers.
About Mann & Elias
The Law Offices of Mann & Elias is an employment law firm that provides guidance and legal support for individuals facing issues in the workplace. We represent clients at every level of the state and federal court systems in lawsuits regarding discrimination, wrongful termination, unpaid wages, and more. When your case is in our hands, we hope to minimize stress and concerns associated with work.
Workplace disputes and negotiations can be complicated and uncomfortable between an employee and employer. In many cases an employer can retaliate, causing individuals to feel that they are at a great disadvantage in the company. When you retain one of our lawyers, you will be well-protected and advised. While there are thousands of lawyers to choose from, we strongly believe our success is based on:
- 50+ years of trial experience
- Excellent advocacy skills
- Intense preparation and research
- Quality care
Since our partnership began over 20 years ago, we have settled hundreds of claims, completed 100 jury and bench trials, and recovered more than $18 million in settlements. In the end, our goal is to understand what you need and achieve the best outcome for you by focusing on those needs. For dedicated representation with no upfront fees, give us a call at 323-866-9564 or email info@mannelias.com.