Imagine doing the same job as your colleague—same duties, same responsibilities, same hours—only to find out they’re earning significantly more than you. Unfortunately, this is not a rare scenario. Wage discrimination remains a serious issue in New Jersey workplaces, unfairly impacting women, people of color, and other marginalized groups.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are deeply committed to helping workers fight back against unequal pay. If you suspect you’re not being paid fairly due to your gender, race, age, or another protected trait, you may have legal options—and we’re here to help you explore them.
What Is Wage Discrimination?
Wage discrimination occurs when an employee is paid less than others for the same or substantially similar work due to a legally protected characteristic. This can include:
- Gender or sex
- Race or ethnicity
- Age
- Disability status
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy or parental status
It’s important to note that wage discrimination isn’t always obvious. Often, employees don’t learn they are being underpaid until they compare salaries or discover pay discrepancies through HR documents or colleague disclosures.
Legal Protections Against Wage Discrimination in NJ
Both federal and New Jersey state laws offer powerful protections against wage discrimination. The federal Equal Pay Act requires that men and women in the same workplace be given equal pay for equal work. In addition, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) prohibit pay discrimination based on race, sex, age, and other protected statuses.
New Jersey’s Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act goes even further. It is one of the strongest equal pay laws in the nation, requiring employers to pay employees equally for “substantially similar” work, considering skill, effort, and responsibility. It also extends the statute of limitations and allows for triple damages in proven cases of wage discrimination.
Signs You May Be a Victim of Wage Discrimination
- You’re discouraged from discussing pay with coworkers
- People with similar roles or less experience are paid more
- Your employer lacks transparent compensation structures
- You’ve received unjustified negative performance reviews following pay raise requests
- There is a noticeable pay gap in your department based on gender or race
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s time to take action. Consulting with an experienced employment attorney can help clarify your legal standing and next steps.
What You Can Do
If you believe you’re being underpaid, gather any documentation that supports your claim—pay stubs, job descriptions, emails, employee handbooks, and performance reviews. Then speak with a qualified attorney about your case. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are well-versed in wage discrimination claims and will evaluate your situation thoroughly.
Even if you’re unsure whether wage discrimination is occurring, a legal consultation can help bring clarity and peace of mind. We’re committed to ensuring that New Jersey workers receive the compensation they deserve.
Why NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC?
We are passionate about defending the rights of employees and holding employers accountable for unfair practices. Our firm handles claims across the full spectrum of employment law and is prepared to fight for your financial and legal justice. If we’re not the right fit for your case, we’ll provide trusted referrals so you receive proper representation.
Contact Information
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland
NJ
07068
(973) 358-7027
https://njplaintiff.com/practice-areas/wage-discrimination/
