Business & Work

If you prove workplace discrimination, you may have the right to be hired, reinstated to the job, or promoted. However, this is true only if you would have the job or promotion if the discrimination had not occurred. You may also receive all the money and benefits you lost because of the discrimination you experienced. This can include the pay you should have received (known as back pay) or would receive (known as front pay).

You may be able to receive money for other damages, too. These can include: 

• Reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, 
• Damages for emotional distress, and 
• Punitive damages. 

Punitive damages punish the employer if they violated the employment laws on purpose with "malice" or "reckless indifference."

The kinds of relief and damages you may be able to receive depends on what happened to you. You should consult with a lawyer to understand what remedies the law may provide in your situation.