Age shouldn’t determine opportunity, but for many workers in New Jersey, it unfortunately does. Discrimination based on age can affect hiring decisions, promotions, compensation, and even lead to wrongful termination. This unjust treatment undermines the experience and value that older employees bring to the workplace.
In today’s competitive job market, age discrimination has become an increasingly pressing issue, especially for workers over 40. Employers may hesitate to hire or retain older employees due to perceived limitations, higher salary expectations, or biases about adaptability. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are committed to helping victims of age discrimination take back control of their careers and hold employers accountable.
What Qualifies as Age Discrimination?
Age discrimination involves treating an applicant or employee less favorably because of their age. Under both the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD), it is illegal to discriminate against individuals who are 40 years of age or older. Some common examples of age discrimination include:
- Being passed over for a promotion in favor of a younger, less qualified colleague
- Receiving negative performance reviews after hitting a certain age milestone
- Hearing age-related remarks such as “you’re too old to understand technology”
- Facing layoffs that disproportionately affect older workers
- Seeing job postings with coded language like “digital native” or “recent graduate”
Proving Age Discrimination: What You Need to Know
To establish an age discrimination claim, employees need to demonstrate that age was a motivating factor in the employer’s decision. This can be challenging without the help of legal professionals who understand how to gather evidence, question motives, and present a compelling case. Some forms of proof may include:
- Emails or written communications referencing age
- Witness testimonies from coworkers
- Statistical patterns in company layoffs
- Sudden changes in performance evaluations after reaching a certain age
Our team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC takes a personalized approach, thoroughly investigating each case to uncover all potential evidence and build a strong claim for our clients.
How New Jersey Law Protects Older Workers
New Jersey has robust protections in place for employees facing age-related bias. The state’s LAD provides broader coverage than federal law, including the possibility of compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees. It also applies to employers with fewer than 20 employees—something not covered under the federal ADEA.
Moreover, New Jersey law recognizes that even seemingly neutral workplace policies may have a disparate impact on older employees. For example, if a new performance metric disadvantages employees who have been with the company longer, it may be grounds for legal action.
Fighting Back Against Workplace Discrimination
If you suspect that you are being treated unfairly due to your age, it is essential to document every instance, seek support, and consult with an employment attorney. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we specialize in handling complex age discrimination cases throughout the state of New Jersey. Our experienced team understands both the legal and emotional challenges that come with such cases, and we’re here to fight for your rights and dignity in the workplace.
Why Choose NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC?
Our firm prides itself on being a trusted advocate for employees across New Jersey. Whether you’re navigating a recent demotion, a hostile work environment, or a termination that feels suspicious, we are here to evaluate your case and determine the best path forward. If we are unable to assist directly, we will connect you with reliable professionals who can.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—age discrimination cases are subject to time limits. Speak with a knowledgeable attorney to understand your rights and options.
Contact Information
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland
NJ
07068
(973) 358-7027
https://njplaintiff.com/practice-areas/discrimination/age-discrimination/
