Despite growing awareness and legal protections, discrimination based on sexual orientation remains a serious issue in many New Jersey workplaces. LGBTQ+ employees may face unfair treatment, such as denied promotions, harassment, or hostile work environments. Fortunately, New Jersey law strongly protects employee rights, and legal help is available for those affected.
What Is Sexual Orientation Discrimination?
Sexual orientation discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation. This protection applies to lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and heterosexual individuals.
Common Examples of Sexual Orientation Discrimination
- Refusing to hire or promote an employee due to sexual orientation
- Terminating or demoting someone after learning about their sexual identity
- Harassment through offensive jokes, slurs, or comments
- Denying benefits to same-sex partners
- Retaliating against employees who report discrimination
Such actions are illegal under New Jersey law.
Your Rights Under New Jersey Law
The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) explicitly prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
Key Protections Under NJLAD
- Applies to all employers, regardless of company size
- Prohibits retaliation against employees who report discrimination
- Allows victims to seek financial and emotional damages
- Provides some of the strongest workplace protections in the United States
How to Recognize Sexual Orientation Discrimination at Work
Discrimination is not always obvious. It can appear through subtle or ongoing behavior patterns.
Warning Signs of Workplace Discrimination
- Being excluded from meetings, projects, or social events
- Inappropriate remarks or jokes from coworkers or supervisors
- Sudden negative performance reviews without valid reasons
- Unequal treatment of same-sex relationships in company policies
- Hostile behavior after disclosing sexual orientation
These signs may indicate unlawful conduct.
What to Do If You Experience Discrimination
If you believe you are a victim of sexual orientation discrimination, taking early action is critical.
Steps to Protect Yourself
- Document incidents: Record dates, locations, witnesses, and details
- Save evidence: Keep emails, texts, voicemails, and written notices
- Report internally: File a complaint with HR or management
- Consult an attorney: Legal guidance helps you understand your options
Filing a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Complaint
Employees in New Jersey have multiple legal avenues to pursue justice.
Where You Can File a Complaint
- New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR)
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- Private lawsuit in New Jersey state court
Potential Legal Remedies
- Back pay and lost wages
- Job reinstatement or record correction
- Emotional distress compensation
- Workplace policy changes
- Punitive damages and attorney’s fees
See also: Steps You Can Take Before Hiring a Lawyer for a Denied Insurance Claim
Why Choose NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC proudly supports LGBTQ+ employees and fights for workplace equality. The firm has extensive experience handling discrimination claims and provides compassionate, aggressive legal representation.
Contact NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
If you’ve experienced sexual orientation discrimination, help is available.
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
📞 (973) 358-7027
About NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
NJ Employment Lawyers represent employees across New Jersey in both state and federal courts. The firm handles cases involving discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, whistleblower claims, pregnancy leave violations, misclassification, and other employment law matters.
Their mission is to be your first call when workplace rights are violated—and to connect you with trusted professionals if your case requires additional expertise.
