Disability Discrimination Lawyers Protecting Employees In West Chester

Has a medical condition led to unfair treatment at your job? Are you struggling at work because your employer won’t provide necessary support for your disability? You may be facing a form of workplace discrimination. The stress of such a situation can be immense. You may be worried about retaliation for speaking up or losing your job entirely. However, it’s important to know that you have options and the right to take legal action.

If your employer is denying reasonable accommodations or treating you differently due to your disability, it may be time to consult with seasoned disability discrimination lawyers. For over 15 years, our attorneys at Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, have aggressively protected the rights of employees across Southeastern Pennsylvania. With a client-focused approach and a track record that speaks for itself, we have the knowledge and skills necessary to take on your case. We will work diligently to present a strong case and hold employers accountable.

What Qualifies As A Disability Under Pennsylvania Law?

Both federal and state law prohibit workplace discrimination against people with disabilities. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Pennsylvania’s own Human Relations Act (PHRA), a “disability” refers to a physical or mental condition that significantly affects a major life activity, such as walking, learning or performing manual tasks. 

Common examples of protected conditions include:

• Mobility impairments or serious back issues
• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer
• Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder
• Sensory impairments, including significant vision or hearing loss

It’s crucial to know that these laws also protect you if you have a history of a disability or if your employer simply believes you have a limiting condition and treats you unfairly because of that belief. Our disability discrimination lawyers can clarify how these protections apply to your specific situation.

Requesting Reasonable Accommodations At Work

If a disability makes key aspects of your job difficult or impossible, you can ask your employer for “reasonable accommodations.” A reasonable accommodation is any change or adjustment to your work environment that allows you to perform the important parts of your job. Common examples of reasonable accommodations include:

• Modifying work schedules or allowing flexible hours
• Providing assistive devices or specialized technology
• Making the workplace physically accessible, such as by adding ramps or accessible restrooms
• Reassigning minor, nonessential job duties to another employee
• Allowing a service animal in the workplace

It’s important to inform your employer about your disability and clearly explain what specific changes you need to help you perform your job. While you can make this request verbally, it is highly advisable to put your request in writing. This creates a clear record of your communication. 

Once you make your request, your employer is legally required to engage in an “interactive process” with you. This means they must discuss your needs, explore different accommodation options and work together with you to find a solution that fits both your needs and the needs of the business. 

What To Do If Your Request For Reasonable Accommodation Is Wrongfully Denied

If your employer denies your request for reasonable accommodation, it can be incredibly frustrating and may indicate a violation of your rights under the ADA or PHRA. The very first step you should take is to document everything carefully. Take note of the following:

• The date of the denial
• The specific reasons your employer provided
• Any related communications, emails or conversations you had about the refusal

After documenting the denial, it is crucial to speak with a legal professional. Our disability discrimination lawyers can evaluate the details of your situation. We will advise you on the appropriate next steps to take, ensuring you understand your options and can make informed decisions about your claim. 

Speak With A West Chester Disability Discrimination Lawyer Today

Our attorneys are ready to listen. Contact Bellwoar Kelly, LLP, for a consultation at our West Chester office, or at any of our other convenient locations across Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties. Call 610-314-7066 or send us a message through our website.