Best Discrimination Lawyers in Wisconsin

About Discrimination Law in Wisconsin, United States

Discrimination laws in Wisconsin protect individuals from unfair or unequal treatment based on certain personal characteristics. These protections extend to workplaces, housing, public accommodations, education, and other areas of daily life. Discrimination can occur when an individual is treated less favorably because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, or other protected characteristics. Both federal and state laws work together to safeguard these rights within Wisconsin.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where seeking legal assistance is important regarding discrimination in Wisconsin. If you feel you have been denied a job, unfairly terminated, harassed at work, refused housing, or denied public service due to a protected characteristic, a lawyer can help assess your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the complaint process. Discrimination cases can be complex, often requiring interpretation of laws, gathering of evidence, and navigating deadlines or procedures. Legal help may also be needed if your employer retaliates after you report suspected discrimination, or if mediation or court action becomes necessary.

Local Laws Overview

Wisconsin law provides specific protections against discrimination, many of which are similar to federal laws but also extend to additional areas and characteristics. The Wisconsin Fair Employment Act (WFEA) makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against workers based on protected classes such as age (40 and older), race, creed, color, disability, marital status, sex, national origin, ancestry, arrest or conviction record, sexual orientation, and more. In housing, the Wisconsin Open Housing Law prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing. Additionally, discrimination is forbidden in places of public accommodation and education.

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - Equal Rights Division is responsible for investigating employment discrimination complaints, while the Department of Safety and Professional Services handles housing discrimination issues. In many cases, state law may provide broader protections or stricter standards compared to federal law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered discrimination under Wisconsin law?

Discrimination occurs when someone is treated unfairly or unequally based on a protected characteristic such as race, gender, disability, age, or other classifications listed in Wisconsin and federal law.

Which characteristics are protected from discrimination in Wisconsin?

Protected characteristics include race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, arrest or conviction record, military service, and genetic testing.

How do I know if I have experienced illegal discrimination?

If you suspect you were treated differently than others because of a protected characteristic, especially in employment, housing, or service, you may have experienced illegal discrimination. A lawyer can help review the facts to determine if your situation qualifies.

What should I do if I believe I was discriminated against?

Document what happened, including dates, times, names, and any witnesses or evidence. Then, consider contacting a lawyer or the appropriate state agency to discuss filing a complaint.

Where can I file a discrimination complaint in Wisconsin?

Employment discrimination complaints can be filed with the Equal Rights Division of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Housing discrimination complaints can be filed with the Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Are there deadlines for filing a discrimination complaint?

Yes, there are strict time limits. For employment discrimination, complaints must generally be filed within 300 days of the alleged incident. Deadlines for housing or public accommodation complaints vary.

Do I need a lawyer to file a discrimination claim?

You are not required to have a lawyer, but legal help is strongly recommended, especially if your case is complex or if it cannot be resolved through initial investigation.

Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a complaint?

Retaliation for reporting or opposing discrimination is illegal under Wisconsin law. If you face negative consequences after making a complaint, you may have a separate claim for retaliation.

What remedies are available for victims of discrimination?

Possible remedies include reinstatement to a job, payment of lost wages, compensation for emotional distress, policy changes by the employer, or damages in housing cases.

Are small employers covered under Wisconsin discrimination laws?

Yes, most Wisconsin discrimination laws apply to employers with at least one employee, making them more comprehensive than some federal laws.

Additional Resources

For those seeking help or more information about discrimination in Wisconsin, consider the following resources:

• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - Equal Rights Division
• Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Equal Rights Program
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
• Wisconsin State Bar Association
• Local legal aid organizations such as Legal Action of Wisconsin and Disability Rights Wisconsin

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in Wisconsin, your first step should be to document everything related to the incident or pattern of behavior. Reach out to a qualified attorney with experience in discrimination cases, or contact the relevant Wisconsin state agency to discuss your situation. Many attorneys offer an initial consultation to evaluate your case. Acting quickly is essential to protect your rights due to filing deadlines. Legal professionals can help you understand your options, guide you through the complaint process, and represent you if your case moves forward in court or negotiations.