Understanding Retaliation Claims ln Washington State

If you spoke up at work about discrimination or illegal practices and then your employer punished you,you may have experienced retaliation.

Washington law protects employee from th.is kind of treatment. Here's what you need to know.

What is retaliation?

Retaliation happens when your employer takes negative action against you because you reporteddiscrimination, unsafe practices, harassment, or other unlawful behavior.

Examples of retaliation include:

• Getting fired or demoted after you complain.

• Having your hours cut or being reassigned to worse shifts.

• Being left out of meetings or opportunities for advancement.

Why is Retaliation Illegal?

·The Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) makes it illegal for employers to punish workers forstanding up for their rights or the rights of others. The idea is simple: if people fear losing their jobs forspeaking up, discrimination and unlawful behavior will never come to light.

Who enforces the law?

You can file with the Washington Human Rights Commission or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). But if you have a significant case of retaliation you should talk to an attorney assoon as possible, because there are strict time limits on filing administrative claims or filing suit.

What remedies are available·?

• Reinstatement to their job

• Lost wages and benefits

• Compensation for emotional harm

• Attorney1 s fees and costs

Key takeaways

• Retaliation is illegal in Washington

• You don't have to tolerate punishment for speaking up

• There are deadlines-don't wait to get help

• An experienced employment attorney can guide you through the process