Maryland Retaliation Attorneys

Defending Clients Against Illegal Workplace Retaliation

It is a violation of state and federal law to retaliate against an employee for reporting discrimination, sexual harassment, or other wrongdoing. Unfortunately, workplace retaliation is actually one of the most common problems that employment lawyers encounter. If you were the victim of workplace retaliation after asserting your rights, turn to the Law Office of Andrew M. Dansicker, LLC. Our dedicated and experienced Maryland retaliation lawyers can help you file a claim and pursue justice.

Please contact us online or call (410) 213-3392 to schedule a consultation. 

What Constitutes Workplace Retaliation?

When an employer punishes an employee for exercising their protected employment rights, it is considered retaliation. In most cases, the protected rights involve laws prohibiting harassment, discrimination, illegal workplace activity, and other prohibited actions.

When employees complain—either internally or externally to another body, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)—about adverse workplace conditions, they are protected by federal law. Additionally, the law protects workers who participate or serve as witnesses in EEOC cases. 

Our Maryland retaliation attorneys have represented clients who have suffered retaliation after:

• Reporting violations to OSHA
• Reporting violations to the Department of Labor
• Complaining about sexual harassment
• Complaining about employment discrimination
• Opposing illegal activity in the workplace
• Participating in union-sanctioned activities

Common Forms of Retaliation in the Workplace

After an employee takes an action – such as reporting a violation, complaining about harassment, or filing a workers’ compensation claim – the employer could retaliate against the employee in several different ways.

Some common examples of workplace retaliation include:

• Suspension – You remain employed but are asked not to attend work – with or without full pay.
• Demotion – You are assigned to a lower-ranking position and lose the responsibilities, status, and privileges associated with your former position.
• Transferal – You are transferred to another department or location, which causes you undue hardship.
• Reassignment – Your duties have been reassigned or rescheduled in a manner that results in undue hardship.
• Termination – You are fired or let go from your position.
• Exclusion – You are being intentionally barred from staff meetings, training courses, and other workplace activities available to all employees.
• Mistreatment – You are being harassed for exercising your protected rights.
• Other – Loss of hours, reduction of salary, poor performance reviews, or failure to receive an earned promotion. 

These actions violate federal and Maryland state law. 

Steps to Take if You Face Retaliation at Work

To prove retaliation, you must show that you were engaged in a protected activity, and you experienced some type of action to deter you from engaging in such activity (e.g., terminated, suspended, demoted, etc.). There must be a causal link between your activity and the action your employer took against you because of the protected activity.

Understanding Retaliation in Maryland: Local Insights and Resources

In Maryland, workplace retaliation can be a significant concern for employees, especially in areas like Baltimore and Silver Spring, where diverse work environments can sometimes lead to complex interpersonal dynamics. If you find yourself facing retaliation after reporting workplace issues, it’s essential to know that you are not alone. Local resources, such as the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, are available to help you navigate these challenging situations. They provide guidance on your rights and can assist in filing complaints against employers who engage in retaliatory practices.

Many Maryland workers experience retaliation after reporting violations to local agencies, such as the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) or the Department of Labor. These agencies exist to protect your rights, but the fear of retaliation can often deter employees from speaking out. This is where understanding your rights becomes crucial. Whether you are in the bustling streets of Annapolis or the suburban neighborhoods of Columbia, knowing how to document your experiences and seek help is vital.

By reaching out to local legal resources, you can gain a better understanding of your situation and the steps you can take to protect yourself. The Law Office of Andrew M. Dansicker is here to help you navigate the complexities of retaliation claims in Maryland, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.