Our Commitment to Disability Justice in the Workplace
California’s Strongest Advocates for Employees with Disabilities
Living with a disability, illness, or injury is challenging enough without facing workplace discrimination. At Vallero Law, we provide powerful legal representation for employees facing discrimination, harassment, or failure to accommodate under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
Understanding Disability Discrimination
California law protects employees from three primary forms of disability discrimination.
Adverse Employment Actions
When employers terminate, demote, or otherwise penalize employees because of their disability.
Failure to Accommodate
When employers refuse to provide reasonable accommodations that would enable employees to perform essential job functions.
Failure to Engage in Interactive Process
When employers don't meaningfully participate in discussions about potential accommodations
Who Is Protected Under California Law?
California’s FEHA provides broader protections than federal law, covering employees with:
- Physical Disabilities: Physiological conditions limiting major life activities
- Mental Disabilities: Psychological conditions requiring special education or limiting major life activities
- Medical Conditions: Including cancer, HIV/AIDS, and genetic characteristics
- Perceived or Historical Disabilities: Protection extends to those whom employers perceive as disabled
Your Right to Reasonable Accommodation
California employers must provide reasonable accommodations unless they would create an “undue hardship.” These may include:
- Flexible work schedules or telecommuting options
- Modified equipment or accessible facilities
- Reassignment to a vacant position
- Medical leave beyond what’s legally required
- Restructuring of job duties or responsibilities
How Vallero Law Identifies Hidden Discrimination
Most employers won’t openly admit to disability discrimination. Instead, they may:
- Complain about your medical appointments or leaves
- Make comments about your performance before or after your condition
- Create pretextual performance issues shortly after learning of your disability
- Fail to document accommodation requests or interactive process discussions
Vallero Law recognizes these patterns and know how to expose discriminatory intent in court.
What to Do If You're Experiencing Disability Discrimination
If you believe you’re facing discrimination:
- Document Everything: Save emails, texts, and written communications about your disability and accommodation requests
- Report the Discrimination: Notify HR or management according to company policy
- Seek Medical Documentation: Obtain documentation supporting your need for accommodation
- Contact Vallero Law: Call us before filing with government agencies to ensure your rights are fully protected
Distinctive Legal Advocacy for Disability Discrimination Cases
- Comprehensive Case Development: We build comprehensive cases that address all aspects of disability discrimination
- Medical-Legal Expertise: Our understanding of various disabilities ensures proper documentation and accommodation analysis
- Strategic Negotiation: We leverage our knowledge to achieve favorable settlements without prolonged litigation when possible
- Aggressive Litigation: When necessary, we pursue your case through trial with unwavering commitment
Preparing for Your Consultation with Vallero Law
To help us evaluate your case effectively, please gather:
- Timeline of events related to your disability, accommodation requests, and employer responses
- Communications with your employer about your condition
- Medical documentation and doctor’s notes
- Information about your job duties and organizational structure
- Any applications for leave or disability benefits
What Clients Say
Vallero Law takes pride in providing dedicated, compassionate, and effective legal representation. The experiences of our clients reflect our commitment to delivering the support and results they deserve.
[Person's Name] testimonial
Consistently clear, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive.
Working with Pamela was truly a reassuring and empowering experience during a difficult time. I can’t thank her enough for her steady support, professionalism, and expertise throughout my case.[Person's Name] testimonial
Strong, Educated, Professional.
Pam has been amazing from day one when I went in for my initial appointment. She was very informative regarding my case. In the end I'm so happy and overjoyed. I highly recommend Pam to anyone needing a strong attorney by their side, because that exactly what she is - strong, educated, professional attorney.[Person's Name] testimonial
She works hard to fight for you.
Pamela is on your side from day one. She takes the time to get to know you. She works hard to fight for you. No matter the size of the questions she's there to answer and answer them for you.
Ensuring Equal Opportunity for All Abilities
Don’t Face Disability Discrimination Alone
If your employer has failed to accommodate your disability, engaged in discriminatory practices, or retaliated against you for asserting your rights, contact Vallero Law today for a free consultation.
Remember: California law provides just one year from the discriminatory act to file with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing, so don’t delay in seeking legal assistance.
