Employment Law in Arizona
You can take legal action against any employer where you have evidence that you were not hired, were fired, paid less, not promoted or treated in a discriminatory way because of your race, gender, ethnic origin, religion, age or disability. In some cases sexual preference discrimination also applies. There have been exceptions where the employer can show a legitimate work functions need to hire within certain categories. For example, an employer may not want to hire a woman to work in a male locker room or hire a physically disabled person for certain demanding physical tasks.
Employers who violate civil anti-discrimination laws can be subject to financial penalties. They may be forced to re-hire or compensate victims of discriminatory firing. These penalties are serious. Anyone in Arizona subject to discriminatory employment practices should contact a Phoenix Employment Attorney an attorney will work through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to investigate and take action on your case.
Arizona employment law forbids harassment in the workplace. If you feel physically or psychologically threatened or harassed in the workplace, you should discuss the situation with an employment attorney or a law enforcement official. Harassment law should not be interpreted to apply to every act of criticism or minor annoyance. However, if your boss bullies you with racial or sexual epithets or makes inappropriate physical or sexual contact, this may fall within the definition of harassment and could warrant action. Workplace harassment is a serious felony offense in Arizona.
Employment law in Arizona prohibits retaliation against anyone who legitimately reports illegal or unethical practices in the workplace. These anti-retaliation statutes were designed to protect whistle blowers. If you are aware of anything offensive going on in the workplace, you should report to senior management within the company. It is illegal for the company to take any retaliation against you for reporting. If you are the victim of retaliation you should discuss the matter with an attorney.
Arizona is one of the states that have passed state right to work laws. These provisions mean that you cannot be compelled to join a labor union or labor association in order to be hired. However, under the law, you can be compelled to pay the cost of union membership without becoming a member. The arrangements between employers and the unions vary.