Best Job Discrimination Lawyers in Coimbra

About Job Discrimination Law in Coimbra, Portugal:

Job Discrimination Law in Portugal, including Coimbra, safeguards individuals from being discriminated against in the workplace on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, ethnic background, religious beliefs, disability and more. These laws are set forth most prominently in Article 13 of the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic, the Employment Code and the General Labour Law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

Lawyers can provide critical legal representation in instances of job discrimination. You might need a lawyer if you believe you were denied a promotion, unfairly terminated, paid less than colleagues doing the same work, denied reasonable accommodations for a disability, harassed at work, or experienced other discrimination based on a protected characteristic. Lawyers can guide you through the complex legal procedures, advise on evidence gathering and represent your rights in court.

Local Laws Overview:

The Employment Code in Portugal prohibits direct and indirect job discrimination based on ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, family status, economic situation, education, origin or social condition, genetic heritage, reduced work capacity, disability, chronic illness, nationality, ethnic origin or race, territory of origin, language, religion, political or ideological convictions or union membership. The code also provides regulations for maternity and paternity rights, and working conditions for pregnant, puerperal, and lactating women and for workers who are parents. Failure to comply can result in considerable fines, penalties and in some cases even criminal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is considered job discrimination?

Job discrimination occurs when one is treated less favorably in the workplace due to factors like race, sex, age, disability, nationality etc, which are unrelated to job performance or qualifications.

What do I do if I believe I’ve been a victim of job discrimination?

You should consult with a legal professional. They will guide you properly in collecting evidence, lodging a complaint, and potentially pursuing a claim against the discriminatory party.

Can my employer retaliate against me for raising allegations of job discrimination?

Employer retaliation is strictly prohibited under Portuguese labor laws. This includes any adverse action taken against an employee who has lodged a complaint or participated in an investigation.

Do I need a lawyer to file a discrimination claim?

While not mandatory, having a lawyer significantly increases your chances of successful resolution as they have expert knowledge of the law and procedures required.

Can a job discrimination case be resolved outside of court?

Yes, in many situations, job discrimination cases can be resolved outside of court through settlement negotiations or mediation.

Additional Resources:

You can consult the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT), the Commission for Equality in Labor and Employment (CITE), and the High Commission for Migration (ACM) websites for resources and more information. You can also contact the local citizens’ advice bureaus, or trade unions if you are a member.

Next Steps:

If you believe you have been subjected to job discrimination, seek legal advice immediately. Document any instance of discrimination, collect evidence, and report it to your line manager or HR department, if possible. If your employer does not address your concerns adequately, you may consider contacting a lawyer and potentially filing a discrimination claim with the relevant authority or court.