In a world striving for equality and fairness in the workplace, the Equal Pay Act is a critical tool to combat pay discrimination. If you’re an employee in California who believes you are not being paid fairly for your work, you have the right to take action by filing a claim against your employer.
However, filing a successful claim can be a complex process. Keep reading to learn how Equal Pay Act claims differ from other workplace discrimination allegations, how to file a claim, and the benefits of working with a skilled employment attorney like those at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C.
What Is the Equal Pay Act?
The Equal Pay Act (EPA), passed in 1963, is a federal law designed to ensure that employees receive equal compensation for equal work. This means that regardless of gender, employees must be paid the same wage for jobs that require substantially similar skill, effort, and responsibility under similar working conditions.
It’s important to note that the EPA is not the same as the Civil Rights Act, despite many similarities. The EPA only addresses claims based on gender. If someone is being paid less than their colleagues due to their race or religion, they may file a claim under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act instead.
What Is Considered Discrimination Under the Equal Pay Act?
Under the EPA, pay discrimination is based on gender, which includes discrimination against both men and women. Compensation discrimination is more than just differences in salary; it encompasses all aspects of compensation, such as wages, bonuses, benefits, and overtime.
But what is an example of a violation of the EPA? If you’re earning less than someone of the opposite sex for performing substantially similar work, it could be considered discrimination under this act. There are many possible examples of compensation discrimination, such as:
- Being granted lower bonuses or having to do more work than colleagues of another gender to receive the same bonuses
- Having benefits withheld because you “don’t need them” because of your gender
- Not receiving the same opportunities for overtime due to your gender
If any of these issues sound familiar, you may be facing unlawful wage discrimination.
Who Is Eligible to File a Pay Discrimination Claim?
Not everyone is eligible to file an EPA claim. To ensure that your case is valid, certain criteria must be met:
- Employer Size: The Equal Pay Act applies to employers of all sizes, so you are protected whether you work for a small business or a large corporation.
- Equal Work: To file a claim, you and the individual you compare your compensation to must perform substantially similar work. This means the jobs in question require comparable skill, effort, and responsibility and are performed under similar working conditions.
- Gender-Based Discrimination: As mentioned earlier, the EPA targets gender-based pay discrimination. If you believe you are earning less than a colleague of the opposite sex for the same work, you may be eligible to file a claim.
If you meet these three criteria, you may be eligible to file a claim against your employer. However, you can consult an attorney to discuss your eligibility if you are still unsure.
How to File an Equal Pay Act Claim
Now that you understand the fundamentals of the EPA and who can file a claim, let’s delve into the process of filing a claim if you believe you are a victim of wage discrimination.
1. Document the Discrepancy:
The first step in filing a claim is to document the wage disparity. Keep records of your pay, your colleagues’ compensation (especially those in substantially similar roles), and any relevant information that might help support your claim. This evidence will be crucial in building your case.
2. Consult with an Attorney:
Seeking professional legal counsel is highly recommended when dealing with EPA claims. The Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C., offers in-depth expertise in discrimination cases and can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process. They can help you understand the legal nuances, build a strong case, and navigate the complex legal system.
3. Contact Your HR Department:
Before taking legal action, discussing your concerns with your company’s HR department is often beneficial. They may be unaware of the wage discrepancy and could take steps to address the issue internally.
4. File a Complaint:
Suppose your discussions with HR do not yield satisfactory results. In that case, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It’s crucial to adhere to these organizations’ specific guidelines and deadlines.
5. Pursue Legal Action:
If your claim remains unresolved, your attorney can help you initiate a lawsuit against your employer. This legal action can seek compensation for the discrimination you have experienced and potential damages.
Legal Counsel for California Pay Equality Lawsuits
If you’re an employee in California facing pay discrimination, the Equal Pay Act provides a strong legal framework to address these issues. Remember, seeking professional legal counsel is essential to represent your claim effectively. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take action to rectify pay discrimination and work towards achieving compensation equality in your workplace.However, navigating the complexities of the Equal Pay Act and pursuing wage equality can be challenging. That’s where experienced legal counsel, such as the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman, P.C., comes into play. Our team of professionals is well-versed in California pay equality laws and has a successful track record in handling pay discrimination cases. Schedule your consultation with our wage and hour workplace discrimination lawyers to learn how we can assist you with your claim.
