Age Discrimination

As the job market in the United States grows tighter, more employers are discriminating, especially when it comes to age. However, it is illegal to ignore employment laws, such as the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 that protects workers from any type of different treatment based on age. An employer who violates this act is subject to fines and can be held liable to compensate that employee.

At The Cochran Firm, our employment lawyers are a diverse group of some of the most highly-experienced and respected professionals who are dedicated to bringing quality representation for injured clients and their families.

Population Information
The U.S. Census Bureau projected that by 2030, ten states will have more people over the age of 65 than under age 18. As the baby boomers age and are applying for jobs in these economic times, many will face age discrimination.

Discrimination by Age
Like race and sex, age is the result of nature instead of your free choice. Age discrimination attacks your sense of self-worth in a way similar to race and gender discrimination. Age discrimination is defined as a “systematic stereotyping of and discrimination against people because they are old, just as racism and sexism accomplish this with skin color and gender.”

Our experienced employment lawyers know how to recognize the hidden patterns that employers engage in. We represent clients in various industries and have noticed a widespread perception that younger workers are often less expensive, less likely to get hurt or sustain a disability, easier to manage, and less likely to know about their workplace rights.

Examples of Age Discrimination

Examples of unlawful harassment and discrimination because of age include:

  • Denial of employment because someone is considered “too old”
  • Hiring another candidate just because they are younger
  • Denial of training, education, or other benefits to older people
  • Reduction in forces/layoffs that disproportionately affect older people
  • Making jokes or unwanted comments on the basis of age
  • Assignment of undesirable or demeaning tasks to older employees only
  • Lower pay for the same work
  • Making a job more difficult to encourage someone to quit

Any termination that affects older employees disproportionately than younger workers, or policies that provide educational benefits or training only to younger employees is also discriminatory.

If you have been discriminated against because of your age, please contact our experienced law firm today. The employment lawyers at The Cochran Firm will help you get the money you deserve. We serve clients in offices throughout the United States.