If you’ve faced unfair treatment at work due to a disability, you deserve justice. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP, our Waco disability discrimination lawyers are committed to defending employees against unlawful workplace practices. With over 20 years of experience in employment law, we’ve helped numerous residents of Waco, TX, secure their rights. Contact us today for a free, confidential case review. 

 

What Is Disability Discrimination? 

Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats a job applicant or employee unfavorably due to a disability, perceived disability, or history of disability. This is prohibited under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Texas Labor Code Chapter 21. These laws protect individuals with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit major life activities. Examples of disability discrimination include: 

• Refusing to hire qualified applicants due to their disability 
• Denying promotions, training, or benefits because of a disability Failing to provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified schedules or accessible workspaces 
• Wrongful termination or layoffs targeting employees with disabilities 
• Harassment, such as derogatory comments about a disability, creating a hostile work environment 
• Retaliation for requesting accommodations or reporting discrimination 

 

Our Waco disability discrimination attorneys at SYT Firm are here to help you understand your rights and hold employers accountable. 

 

Key Information Clients Need to Know About Disability Discrimination 

Understanding disability discrimination is essential to protecting your workplace rights. Here’s what Waco clients need to know: 

• Legal Protections: The ADA applies to employers with 15 or more employees, as does Texas Labor Code Chapter 21. These laws require employers to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship. They also prohibit discrimination in hiring, firing, pay, promotions, and other employment terms, as well as retaliation for asserting your rights. 
• What Qualifies as a Disability: A disability includes physical impairments (e.g., mobility issues, blindness), mental health conditions (e.g., depression, PTSD), chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, cancer), or temporary conditions (e.g., post-surgery recovery). You’re also protected if you’re perceived as disabled or have a record of a disability. 
• Common Workplace Scenarios: Discrimination often occurs when employers refuse accommodations (e.g., denying a flexible schedule for medical appointments), exclude employees with disabilities from opportunities (e.g., assuming they can’t handle specific tasks), or terminate them after a disability disclosure. Subtle biases, such as avoiding interactions with employees who have disabilities, can contribute to a hostile work environment. 
• Signs of Discrimination: Watch for unequal treatment compared to non-disabled colleagues, denial of accommodations without explanation, sudden changes in job duties after disclosing a disability, or comments like “you’re too slow because of your condition.” Patterns of unfair treatment are key indicators of potential issues. 
• Employer Defenses: Employers may argue that accommodations are too costly (undue hardship), the employee wasn’t qualified, or decisions were based on performance. Our attorneys counter these claims by demonstrating that the accommodation was reasonable, the employee was qualified, and the disability was a factor, using evidence such as medical records or company policies. 
• Proving Your Case: To succeed, you must show: (1) you have a disability or are perceived as having one, (2) you’re qualified for the job with or without accommodations, (3) you faced an adverse employment action, and (4) the action was linked to your disability. We help build a strong case with evidence like accommodation requests or witness statements. 
• Reasonable Accommodations: Employers must engage in an interactive process to provide accommodations like assistive technology, modified duties, or leave unless it’s prohibitively expensive or disruptive. Denying accommodations without discussion is often a violation of the law. 
• Retaliation Risks: It’s illegal for employers to punish you for requesting accommodations or reporting discrimination. If retaliation occurs (e.g., demotion, harassment), you may have grounds for an additional claim. 

 

Time is critical due to strict filing deadlines. Consult our SYT team to preserve your claim. 

 

How Our Waco Disability Discrimination Lawyers Can Help 

Navigating a disability discrimination claim can be challenging, but our experienced attorneys make the process simpler. Here’s how we assist: 

• Free Case Evaluation: We assess your situation to determine if disability discrimination occurred under the ADA or Texas law. 
• Evidence Gathering: We collect critical evidence, such as medical records, accommodation requests, performance reviews, and witness statements. 
• Customized Strategy: We develop a tailored plan to pursue compensation, accommodations, or reinstatement. 
• Negotiation and Litigation: We negotiate with employers for fair settlements or represent you in court with strong advocacy. 
• Ongoing Support: We provide regular updates, answer questions, and guide you through the process to reduce stress. 

 

Potential Compensation 

A successful claim may recover: 

• Back pay for lost wages and benefits 
• Compensation for emotional distress 
• Punitive damages for egregious violations 
• Reinstatement, accommodations, or front pay 
• Attorney fees and legal costs 

 

Don’t let disability discrimination undermine your rights. Schedule your free consultation with our Waco disability discrimination attorneys  at SYT today. 

 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Disability Discrimination 

If you believe you’re facing disability discrimination, prompt action strengthens your case. Follow these steps: 

• Document Incidents: Record details of discriminatory actions, including dates, times, individuals involved, and communications (e.g., accommodation denials). 
• Request Accommodations: Submit requests in writing and keep copies. Follow up if the employer doesn’t engage in the interactive process. 
• Preserve Evidence: Save medical records, performance reviews, pay stubs, or documents showing unfair treatment. 
• Consult a Lawyer: Contact a our SYT disability discrimination lawyer to evaluate your case and protect your rights. 
• File a Claim: Our attorneys can help file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). 
• Key Deadlines: You have 180 days to file an EEOC charge or 300 days if the TWC is involved. Missing these deadlines could bar your claim, so act quickly. 

 

Contact Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP Today 

Disability discrimination can harm your career, finances, and well-being. Our Waco disability discrimination lawyers at SYT Firm are ready to fight for your rights and secure justice. With deep roots in Waco and a proven track record, we’re the team you can trust. 

Call us at (254) 399-8788 to schedule your free, confidential case review. Take the first step toward justice today.