Your Legal Rights: Understanding the NJ Law Against Discrimination

New Jersey is one of the most employee-friendly states in the country when it comes to workplace protections. Central to those protections is the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), a powerful statute designed to ensure that workers are judged on their performance and qualifications—not their race, gender, religion, age, or other protected characteristics.

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is proud to help New Jersey employees understand and assert their rights under the NJLAD. If you suspect you’ve been treated unfairly at work, knowing how this law applies to you is the first step in protecting your future.

What Is the NJLAD?

The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on a broad range of protected characteristics, including:

• Race or color
• National origin or ancestry
• Sex or gender identity
• Sexual orientation
• Religion or creed
• Age
• Disability
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Marital or domestic partnership status
• Military service

This law applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, compensation, promotions, job assignments, training, and more. It also protects against harassment and retaliation for asserting one’s rights.

What Makes NJLAD So Unique?

Compared to federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the NJLAD offers broader protections and covers more employers. For example, it applies to all employers regardless of size (unlike federal laws, which usually apply only to businesses with 15 or more employees). It also recognizes more protected categories and offers a longer timeframe to file a claim—up to two years from the date of the discriminatory act.

In addition, NJLAD allows for a wider range of remedies, including back pay, front pay, emotional distress damages, punitive damages, attorney’s fees, and reinstatement when appropriate.

Recognizing Discrimination at Work

Discrimination isn’t always overt. Sometimes it shows up in subtle, repeated ways that erode your dignity or limit your opportunities. Examples may include:

• Consistent denial of promotions or raises given to less-qualified coworkers
• Offensive jokes or comments about your race, gender, religion, or age
• Unequal discipline or workload distribution
• Exclusion from important meetings or projects
• Being terminated after revealing a pregnancy or medical condition

Filing a Discrimination Claim in New Jersey

If you believe you’ve been a victim of discrimination, you have several options. You can file a complaint with your employer’s HR department, pursue a claim with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR), or file a lawsuit in state court. Consulting with an employment attorney can help you choose the best path forward and ensure your complaint is filed correctly and on time.

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we help clients navigate every stage of the process—from initial investigation to negotiation or litigation. Our experienced team works to gather evidence, build your case, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Know Your Rights and Stand Up for Them

Discrimination in the workplace can damage your confidence, career, and livelihood. But with strong legal protections like the NJLAD and a dedicated legal team at your side, you don’t have to face it alone. Justice is possible—and we’re here to help you pursue it.

If you’ve experienced workplace discrimination and live in New Jersey, reach out to NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC. Let us put our knowledge and passion to work for you.

About NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC

NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC represents employees throughout New Jersey in matters involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, misclassification, and other workplace injustices. Our goal is to provide clear, effective legal representation while advocating fiercely for employee rights.

Contact Information:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027