Americans With Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) seeks to secure equal employment opportunities for all employees, regardless of disability status. It prohibits discrimination to protect employee rights and helps to inform employers of how they can ensure equal treatment and avoid employment disputes.

At Strause Law Group, PLLC, our attorneys have decades of combined experience with the ADA and other aspects of employment law. We can help both employers and employees seek a resolution to disputes and make sure that all policies align with the ADA’s guidelines. We are proud to serve both Kentucky and South Carolina, and we invite you to contact our lawyers today to set up an initial consultation or case review.

Rights Under The ADA

Qualified individuals who have disabilities have certain protections under the ADA. Potential disabilities could include:

• Physical disabilities
• Mental health conditions
• Cognitive disorders
• Chronic illnesses

Many people first think of physical disabilities, but it is important to remember that workers in all of these categories could be regarded as disabled.

What Discrimination Is Prohibited?

Under the ADA, it is illegal for employers to discriminate when:

• Hiring new employees
• Firing or terminating existing employees
• Making decisions about promotions
• Providing necessary training
• Determining pay and benefits
• Handing out job assignments

Additionally, harassment based on disability status is also illegal in a workplace setting.

Employer Obligations Under The ADA

Employers can often avoid disputes by being aware of their own obligations under ADA guidelines, which could include:

• Making reasonable accommodations, such as modified work schedules or the use of assistive technology.
• Engaging in dialogue with employees during the interactive process: When employees request assistance, or the employer recognizes the need, they must collaborate with the employee to identify reasonable accommodations that can help them perform their job.
• Refraining from retaliation. When an employee exercises their rights under the ADA, such as requesting workplace accommodations, it is illegal for employers to retaliate through termination, harassment, demotion, pay cuts or in any other way.

Employers should always seek to avoid a hostile work environment and give workers with a disability classification the support and assistance they need to be productive members of the workforce.

Call Today For A Consultation

You can meet with our ADA lawyers at our offices in Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky, along with our office in Charleston, South Carolina. To set up your initial consultation with Strause Law Group, PLLC, please call 502-498-8268 or use the online contact form today.