If you’ve been treated unfairly at work because of your age, you’re not alone, and you do have legal options. Both federal and New York laws make age discrimination illegal, and employees have the right to hold employers accountable.
At Mizrahi Kroub LLP, our age discrimination lawyers in NYC help workers fight back against bias and retaliation in the workplace. With 50 + years of collective experience, more than $1 billion recovered, and over 5,000 cases settled, we know what it takes to pursue justice when employers cross the line.
Understanding Age Discrimination in New York
Age discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee or job applicant less favorably because of age. In New York, both federal law (the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, or ADEA) and the New York State Human Rights Law protect workers age 40 and older from unfair treatment in every stage of employment—hiring, promotions, job assignments, pay, benefits, or termination.
These laws apply to both public and private employers and make it illegal to use age as a factor in decisions that affect your career.
What to Do If You Experience Age Discrimination at Work?
If you believe you’ve been targeted because of your age, the right steps early on can strengthen your case.
1. Document the Discrimination: Keep a record of what happened. Save emails, text messages, or performance reviews that show changes in treatment, pay, or opportunities tied to your age.
2. Report the Behavior: Follow your company’s reporting procedures. Notify HR or your supervisor in writing, keeping a copy for your records. Internal reports often help establish that your employer was aware of the problem.
3. Speak with an Age Discrimination Lawyer in NYC: Before taking further action, consult an attorney who handles employment discrimination and retaliation claims. An employment lawyer can explain your legal rights, help you avoid common pitfalls, and determine whether to file with a state or federal agency.
Filing an Age Discrimination Claim in New York
After reviewing your situation, your attorney may recommend filing with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New York State Division of Human Rights (NYSDHR). These agencies investigate discrimination and retaliation in the workplace.
Key Points to Remember
- Filing Deadlines: In New York, most employees have 300 days from the date of discrimination to file with the EEOC. Acting quickly helps preserve your rights.
- Retaliation is Illegal: Employers cannot demote, terminate, or harass you for reporting discrimination or participating in an investigation.
Your attorney will handle the filings, communicate with the agencies, and represent you in settlement negotiations or court proceedings.
Possible Compensation and Remedies
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to recover:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Reinstatement or promotion
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Attorneys’ fees and litigation costs
In some cases, courts also impose punitive damages to deter future discrimination.
Contact our Trusted Age Discrimination Lawyers in NYC at Mizrahi Kroub
Age should never determine your worth or your future at work. If you’ve faced bias, demotion, or termination because of your age, Mizrahi Kroub LLP can help you take the next step. Our firm represents employees across New York City and throughout the state in all types of employment law and workplace retaliation cases.
Contact Mizrahi Kroub LLP today to speak with an experienced age discrimination lawyer in New York. We’ll review your situation, explain your legal options, and help you protect your career and reputation.
