Harassment of veterans in the workspace

As a veteran of the United States military, you deserve the gratitude of every American. You also deserve to be treated fairly by your employer regarding work leave and other related employment law issues. If your rights have been violated at work, do not fight this battle on your own. Work with an experienced team of attorneys that can help you protect your rights in the workplace.

At Le Clerc & Le Clerc LLP, we have a wealth of experience, a track record of success, and the knowledge needed to protect your rights in the workplace. We have been serving clients in San Francisco and the surrounding California area in all types of work leave and other employment law issues.

Veterans Are a Protected Class

Federal legislation protects veterans from discrimination in the workplace because of their service. Three major bills apply to veterans:

• Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): Protects your right to fair employment due to voluntary or involuntary military service, including National Guard members and reservists. 
• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA): Protects disabled veterans from workplace discrimination and guarantees them the right to reasonable accommodations. 
• Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA): Mandates companies with major federal contracts to take affirmative hiring action to recruit and employ protected veterans.

These laws name veterans as a protected class. As such, if you’re facing discrimination because of your service or any mental or physical disabilities you acquired during your service, you may be able to take legal action to fight for your right to work. 

The Importance of Your Veteran Status

Holding status as a military veteran has important implications for your rights in the workplace. As a protected class, veterans who meet VEVRAA and USERRA qualifications are given similar protections to classes named in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

In general, you have the right to:

• Resume your job after a time of leave for service in the military
• Be free from denial of employment, promotions, or other benefits because of your involvement in the military (freedom from discrimination)
• Retain your employment-based health plans if you are on leave for military service

Each case is different. The laws covering veterans’ rights are complex and multifaceted, and this is just a tiny sampling of your rights as a military member in the workplace. Still, the critical point is that you have rights, and we can help you protect them.

Contact Le Clerc & Le Clerc LLP

If you are a military veteran, talk with a lawyer from our firm about your rights in the workplace. We are here to help you. Call 415-445-0900 or email us today to schedule a consultation with an attorney from our firm and learn how we can fight against workplace veteran discrimination on your behalf.