Retaliation in the workplace occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activity. This may include reporting discrimination, harassment, wage violations, or other forms of workplace misconduct. Both federal and Texas laws strictly prohibit employers from retaliating against workers who assert their legal rights.
Protected Activities That May Lead to Retaliation
Employees are protected from retaliation when they:
– File a complaint about discrimination or harassment
– Participate in an investigation or lawsuit
– Request accommodations for a disability or religious practice
– Report wage and hour violations
– Blow the whistle on illegal company practices
How Workplace Retaliation May Appear
Retaliation is not always easy to identify. It can manifest in many ways, such as:
– Termination or demotion
– Pay cuts or denial of raises
– Negative performance reviews
– Sudden changes in job duties or schedule
– Hostile treatment or increased scrutiny
– Exclusion from meetings or decision-making
– Threats or intimidationRetaliation is not always easy to identify. It can manifest in many ways, such as:
– Termination or demotion
– Pay cuts or denial of raises
– Negative performance reviews
– Sudden changes in job duties or schedule
– Hostile treatment or increased scrutiny
– Exclusion from meetings or decision-making
– Threats or intimidation
How to File a Retaliation Complaint
If you believe you are experiencing retaliation, it’s important to document every incident thoroughly. You can file a complaint with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Both agencies investigate retaliation claims, and if they find evidence of retaliation, you may be entitled to reinstatement, back pay, or other forms of compensation.
Why You Should Consult an Employment Attorney
Proving retaliation often requires establishing a direct link between your protected activity and the adverse employment action. An experienced employment attorney can help gather and present evidence, interview witnesses, and navigate the legal complexities of your case. If you’re in Houston, contacting a workplace retaliation lawyer may be your best first step toward justice.
Don’t allow unlawful retaliation to go unchallenged. If you have faced punishment after standing up for your rights at work, contact a Houston employment attorney to discuss your legal options and protect your future.