If you suffered employment discrimination in New Mexico, you may be able to pursue an employment discrimination claim against your employer to recover compensation for your losses. There are many grounds for employment discrimination, but some of the more common causes of discrimination are sex, age, gender identity, race, creed, religion, and other factors. There are federal laws that prohibit these actions, but often, state laws provide extra protection. Here is a closer look at employment discrimination in New Mexico and the laws that protect you.
What Kind of Discrimination Laws are in Place in New Mexico?
The New Mexico Human Rights Act makes it illegal to discriminate against an individual in the workplace based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin as well as illegal to discriminate against a woman based on pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to childbirth or pregnancy. The Human Rights Bureau is a neutral agency created to enforce the act and will investigate discrimination claims based on color, race, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, physical or mental handicap, spousal affiliation, medical condition, sexual orientation, or gender identity in the workplace as well as in public accommodations or credit.
Who is Protected By Federal and State Laws in New Mexico?
The state laws pertaining to discrimination in New Mexico are enforced by the Human Rights Bureau. These laws protect all workers, including those at smaller employers. They are designed to ensure equality and fair treatment on multiple levels. The laws also apply to public accommodations and acquiring credit or financing.
What Employers are Covered by Discrimination Laws in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, state violations of the discrimination law are filed with the Human Rights Bureau. If you work for a smaller employer, you want to file your claim there as well. Federal laws only apply to employers who have 15 or more employees. Most employers are covered by either state or federal discrimination laws in New Mexico.
Which State Agencies Regulate Workplace Harassment Laws in New Mexico?
The Human Rights Bureau works to regulate workplace harassment laws in New Mexico. The EEOC handles all federal claims. The Human Rights Bureau can be contacted by calling (505) 827-6838 or (800) 566-9471. The offices are located at 1596 Pancheo St., Suite 103 in Santa Fe. The EEOC has offices throughout the country. You can call the EEOC at (800) 669-4000 to start the claim online or to find out your nearest EEOC office. You can start a claim over the phone, online or by mail. You can also schedule an appointment at your nearest office.
How Do I File A Discrimination Claim in New Mexico?
To file a workplace discrimination, claim in New Jersey, you need to contact the proper office. If your employer has from 1 to 14 workers, you will want to file with the state agency, which is the Human Rights Bureau. You will need to contact the nearest office or visit the agency’s website. If your employer has 15 or more workers, you can file with the EEOC. The EEOC is a federal agency which oversees the federal discrimination laws. If your claim is age-related your employer must have 20 or more workers.
To file a claim with the EEOC, you can go online and visit their website. You can then start the process either online, over the phone, or by mail. You will be assigned a representative who handles such cases and who can help you get your claim on the right track. You will need hard evidence and supporting documentation to prove that you suffered the discrimination that you allege.
There is a statute of limitations, which is a time limit for pursuing a workplace discrimination claim. Federal laws give an individual 180 days from the date of the incident to file a claim. When state laws are also considered, the time limit extends to 300 days. If you wait too long, you cannot pursue a claim.
How Do I Get Help Filing A Discrimination Claim in New Mexico?
If you suffered workplace discrimination in New Mexico, you should enlist the help of an experienced employment law attorney who helps New Mexico workers in such situations. An attorney is familiar with the state and federal laws that apply.
When you meet with a New Mexico workplace discrimination lawyer, be sure to go over their payment plans. Some attorneys require a retainer while others take cases on a contingency basis. To share the details of your workplace discrimination case and to determine the best way to proceed with your claim, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form. Provide a way to be contacted by the law office.
