Best Discrimination Lawyers in Virginia

About Discrimination Law in Virginia, United States

Discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfavorably or unequally based on specific characteristics such as race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or religion. In Virginia, discrimination law covers important areas of life including employment, housing, education, public accommodations, and credit. Virginia's laws are designed to protect residents from discrimination and ensure equal treatment for all.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations in which seeking legal help for discrimination can be crucial. If you believe you have experienced discrimination at work, when renting or buying a home, or while accessing public services because of your race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristic, a lawyer can help. Legal assistance can be especially necessary if:

• You have been terminated, demoted, or denied a job or promotion due to a protected characteristic.
• Your housing application was unfairly rejected or you were harassed in your dwelling.
• You faced unequal access to public facilities or goods and services.
• You experience retaliation for reporting discrimination.
• You have been subjected to a hostile environment based on discrimination.
• You are unsure whether your situation qualifies as discrimination under the law.

A lawyer can guide you through the process of asserting your rights, communicating with employers or landlords, and filing administrative complaints or lawsuits.

Local Laws Overview

Virginia has its own set of anti-discrimination laws, which complement federal protections. The key statute is the Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA), which protects against discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The VHRA applies to employment, housing, public accommodations, and credit transactions.

On the employment side, most employers with 15 or more employees must comply with the law. The Virginia Fair Housing Law offers broad protection against housing discrimination, and the Virginia Values Act significantly expanded civil rights in 2020, making Virginia one of the most comprehensive states in the South for LGBTQ+ protections. Additionally, local ordinances in cities and counties may provide further protections.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with the Virginia Division of Human Rights, the Office of Civil Rights, or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), depending on the situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are protected characteristics under Virginia discrimination law?

In Virginia, protected characteristics include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

What areas of life does Virginia's discrimination law cover?

Virginia law covers employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit. Different laws may apply depending on which area is involved.

How do I know if I have experienced illegal discrimination?

If you are treated less favorably than others or denied opportunities based on a protected characteristic, or if you face harassment or retaliation for asserting your rights, you may be experiencing illegal discrimination.

Can I be fired for reporting discrimination in Virginia?

Virginia law prohibits retaliation against anyone who files a complaint or participates in an investigation regarding discrimination. If you are fired for reporting discrimination, you may have a claim for unlawful retaliation.

What should I do if I experience discrimination at work?

Document every incident, follow any internal complaint procedures, and contact the Virginia Division of Human Rights or the EEOC. Speaking to a lawyer before or after reporting can also help you protect your rights.

How do I file a discrimination complaint in Virginia?

You can file a complaint with the Virginia Division of Human Rights or the appropriate federal agency, such as the EEOC for workplace discrimination. Complaints must usually be filed within a limited time frame after the discriminatory act occurs.

Are there time limits for filing a discrimination complaint?

Yes, time limits apply and depend on the type of discrimination and the agency involved. For employment discrimination, the deadline is typically 180 to 300 days from the date of the incident.

Does Virginia law protect against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination?

Yes, the Virginia Values Act added explicit protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

What remedies are available if my discrimination claim is successful?

Possible remedies include back pay, hiring or reinstatement, changes to employer policies, monetary damages, court orders to stop discrimination, and attorney’s fees.

Can discrimination laws apply to small businesses or landlords?

Some laws apply only to businesses or landlords above a certain size, but Virginia's laws cover most employers with 15 or more employees and many housing providers. Always check the specifics of your situation.

Additional Resources

• Virginia Division of Human Rights - Investigates discrimination complaints and enforces state laws.
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Handles federal discrimination cases.
• Virginia Office of Civil Rights - Offers guidance and assistance on civil rights protections.
• Legal Aid Justice Center - Provides legal help for those who qualify based on income and type of case.
• Local Bar Associations - Many provide lawyer referral services for discrimination cases.

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in Virginia, start by documenting all relevant facts, including dates, names, locations, and details of the incident. Review your employer or housing provider’s grievance or complaint procedures. Consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in discrimination cases to discuss your rights and possible strategies. You may also file a complaint with the Virginia Division of Human Rights or the relevant federal agency. Taking timely action is important due to strict filing deadlines. Legal professionals can help guide you through the process and improve your chances of achieving a fair resolution.