The political and legal landscape is changing. One example of this came when President Trump issued a sweeping executive order (EO) earlier in the year to end illegal discrimination and restore merit-based opportunity.
The EO directs the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to cease promoting diversity, holding federal contractors responsible for taking “affirmative action,” and allowing or encouraging contractors to engage in workforce balancing based on race, color, sex, sexual preference, religion, or national origin.
While the EO ends affirmative actions based on race and sex, it does not change existing prohibitions on discrimination in employment, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information, per the Oklahoma.gov website.
Workplace discrimination remains a serious issue that can have profound effects on employees and businesses alike, making it imperative to consult with an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney.
The attorneys of Fry & Elder understand the legal boundaries of workplace discrimination and employment law and have put together a real-life hypothetical of someone who believes she was wrongfully terminated due to gender discrimination in Tulsa.
The Case of Sarah: A Hypothetical Lawsuit
Sarah worked for a mid-sized Tulsa-based tech company for five years. She had an excellent track record, received promotions, and was well-respected by her colleagues. However, after reporting a pattern of unequal pay between male and female employees, she noticed a change in management’s behavior. Suddenly, her performance reviews became negative, and she was eventually terminated under the pretext of “restructuring.”
Feeling that she was fired in retaliation for speaking out about gender discrimination, Sarah decided to take legal action. But navigating employment law is complex, and consulting an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney became essential.
Why Consulting with a Tulsa Employment Law Attorney Is Crucial
- Understanding the Law
Employment discrimination cases in Oklahoma fall under federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and state-specific protections. A lawyer can help determine whether Sarah’s termination violated these laws. - Gathering Evidence
Proving workplace discrimination requires substantial evidence. A lawyer can guide Sarah in collecting emails, performance reviews, witness testimonies, and other documentation that supports her claim. - Filing the Proper Complaints
Before suing, Sarah must file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission. An attorney ensures this is done correctly and within legal timeframes. - Negotiation and Settlement
Many discrimination cases settle before trial. An experienced attorney can negotiate with Sarah’s former employer to reach a fair settlement, potentially avoiding a lengthy court battle. - Litigation and Trial
If negotiations fail, taking the case to court may be necessary. A skilled employment lawyer will represent Sarah, argue her case, and present compelling evidence to a judge or jury.
Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference
Workplace discrimination cases are legally complex and emotionally taxing. Whether you’re an employee like Sarah or an employer facing an allegation, seeking legal counsel from an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney early can make all the difference. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work in Tulsa, consulting with an employment attorney is a crucial first step toward justice.
For nearly 100 years, Fry & Elder has embodied Oklahoma legal excellence since opening its doors in 1932. Fry & Elder features an elite team of experienced attorneys in successful protective order defense. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014.
Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney.
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