Veterans, active service members, and reservists have dedicated themselves to protecting our country—and they deserve equal protection in the workplace. If you’ve faced unfair treatment in Egg Harbor Township because of your military status, deployment obligations, or past service, it may be a case of military service discrimination, which is illegal under both state and federal law.
What Is Military Service Discrimination?
This form of discrimination occurs when an employer treats a current or former member of the military unfairly because of their service. It also includes retaliatory acts against employees who take legally protected military leave or request accommodations related to their service obligations.
Examples of Military Service Discrimination
- Refusing to hire a veteran due to PTSD or service-related health conditions
- Firing an employee because of upcoming National Guard or Reserve duty
- Failing to reinstate an employee after military leave
- Passing over former service members for promotions based on stereotypes
- Harassment or offensive remarks about military service or deployments
Your Legal Protections
Employees in New Jersey are protected under several laws, including:
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Prohibits discrimination based on military service or veteran status.
- Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): A federal law that guarantees reemployment rights and protects against job discrimination for service members.
Employer Obligations Under USERRA
- Reinstate you to your former job or a comparable one after military leave
- Maintain your seniority, benefits, and pay rate
- Not discriminate against you for being a member of the military or requesting time off for duty
What To Do If You’re Facing Discrimination
- Keep detailed records: Save documentation of discriminatory actions, comments, or employment decisions related to your service.
- Report it internally: Use your company’s HR process to file a formal complaint.
- Seek legal advice: If you’re retaliated against or ignored, contact an employment attorney who can advocate for your rights.
Remedies Available to Victims
- Reinstatement to your position
- Back pay and lost benefits
- Compensation for emotional distress or punitive damages
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys
proudly serve veterans and military service members in Egg Harbor Township who face discrimination in the workplace. Their experienced legal team will investigate your claim, explain your rights, and aggressively pursue justice to ensure you receive the respect and opportunities you’ve earned.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
If your employer has treated you unfairly because of your military status, don’t hesitate to act. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation. They’ll help you stand up for your rights and your service.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
