Best Job Discrimination Lawyers in Kowloon

About Job Discrimination Law in Kowloon, Hong Kong

Job discrimination in Kowloon, Hong Kong, refers to unfair treatment of employees or job applicants based on characteristics such as race, sex, disability, family status, or age, which are protected under the Hong Kong law. It is governed by four main ordinances: the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, the Disability Discrimination Ordinance, the Family Status Discrimination Ordinance, and the Race Discrimination Ordinance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People may need legal help in situations where they believe they have been discriminated against at their workplace. This could involve being denied employment, promotions, or appropriate remuneration because of gender, race, age, marital or pregnancy status, disability, or other protected attributes. Legal assistance can be particularly beneficial in navigating through the complexities of the local legal procedures, gathering evidence, and ensuring the best possible outcome for discrimination claims.

Local Laws Overview

In Kowloon, Hong Kong, the laws on job discrimination are enshrined in four main ordinances: Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO), Race Discrimination Ordinance (RDO), Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO), and the Family Status Discrimination Ordinance (FSDO). Each ordinance prohibits both direct and indirect discrimination, as well as victimisation and harassment related to one's protected characteristics in different areas of employment, including recruitment, remuneration, working conditions, and termination of employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of behaviours can be considered job discrimination?

Job discrimination may manifest in various ways, such as refusal to hire, unfair treatment in promotions or remuneration, unequal access to training opportunities, or unfair termination of employment based on race, gender, age, family status, or disability.

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

Collect all the evidence that supports your case and consult a lawyer to receive appropriate guidance. You may also file a complaint with the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC).

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?

You have 12 months from the date of the occurrence of the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the EOC.

Can a lawyer represent me in the EOC?

Yes, you have the right to legal representation during the complaint handling process led by the EOC.

Will my employer be notified if I contact the EOC?

The EOC will not contact your employer unless you decide to lodge a formal complaint and give your consent for the EOC to investigate the matter.

Additional Resources

The Hong Kong Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) is a major entity that tackles job discrimination complaints. They offer a range of resources including educational materials, guidelines, and assistance in complaints management. On the other hand, legal advice centres and NGOs such as the Hong Kong Community Law Centre, the Legal Aid Department, and the Society for Community Organization can provide further legal assistance and advice.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance, your first step should be consulting an experienced discrimination lawyer who can guide you through the process. Gather all relevant documents and evidences related to your claim. If you decide to proceed, you can formally lodge a complaint with the EOC or the appropriate legal entity that deals with such matters. Remember, it is crucial to take action promptly as there is a time limitation for filing discrimination complaints.