Workplace discrimination occurs when employees are discriminated against based on characteristics such as their age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disabilities, and pregnancy. Such discrimination is unlawful, and if you have been a victim of it, you are entitled to receive compensation from your employer. 

An employment attorney Virginia can help you understand what legal action you can take to protect your rights. Their expertise and dedication towards your case can significantly improve your chances of receiving your rightful compensation. 

Types of compensation. 

Every situation differs, and the type of compensation that applies to your case varies. The motive behind these settlements is to enable the employee to return to a similar position in which they would be had the discrimination occurred. A lawyer can help determine what your settlement is worth. 

  • Front and Back pay. 

Front pay refers to the financial losses of the victim that will take place in the place as a result of the discrimination they suffered. Back pay compensates your lost earnings from the period when the discriminatory act occurred to when the judgment is made. You may also be reinstated as part of the compensation.

  • Lost benefits. 

While losing your job can negatively impact your financial state, it also leads to the loss of the benefits offered by the job, such as healthcare plans, retirement funds, and stocks. Future-based expenses are more complex to calculate accurately, and your lawyer can help you access expert witnesses to estimate them and testify on your behalf in court.

  • Pain and suffering. 

The consequences of facing discrimination at your workplace can be severe. It can damage the victim’s mental health, and they may be diagnosed with conditions such as depression and anxiety, experience mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. Your lawyer helps you gather evidence for proving your emotional distress damages by collecting a statement from your mental health professional.

  • Legal fees. 

Your compensation can help you recover the legal expenses you incurred to take action against your employer, such as the attorney’s fees.

  • Punitive damages. 

These damages punish the employer for discriminating against the victim and make an example to prevent others from engaging in such behavior. They are awarded when proved that the employer acted with “malice or reckless disregard.”

What is the limit? 

There is a specific limit to which you can recover damages, depending on the size of the employer. 

  • For 15 to 100 employees, the maximum is $50,000. 
  • For 101 to 200 employees, the maximum is $100,000. 
  • For 201 to 500 employees, the maximum is $200,000. 
  • For more than 500 employees, the maximum is $300,000. 

A lawyer can represent you and take the proper legal decisions that benefit your case. They have experience from helping past clients with similar situations to yours and can help you seek the compensation you deserve.