Gainesville Employment Discrimination Lawyer

Fighting for Your Rights and Dignity in the Workplace

Being treated unfairly at work because of who you are is illegal, demoralizing, and wrong. At Massey & Duffy, PLLC, we are dedicated to holding employers accountable for discriminatory practices. Gainesville employment attorney Michael O. Massey uses his extensive litigation experience to fight for employees who have been wrongfully terminated, demoted, harassed, or denied opportunities. We are here to ensure your voice is heard and justice is served.

Is What You're Experiencing Illegal Discrimination?

Florida and federal laws protect employees from unfair treatment based on their identity. If you have faced an adverse employment action, it may be illegal discrimination.

Discrimination is Based on Who You Are (Your Protected Class):

  • Race & Color: Discrimination based on your racial background or skin color.

  • Gender & Sex: Unfair treatment based on your sex, gender identity, or stereotypes.

  • Age: Targeting employees aged 40 or older for layoffs, demotions, or hiring freezes.

  • Disability: Failing to provide reasonable accommodations or discriminating based on a physical or mental condition.

  • Religion: Refusing to accommodate religious practices or making decisions based on your faith.

  • Pregnancy: Negative actions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.

  • National Origin: Bias against your country of origin, accent, or ethnicity.

  • LGBTQ+ Status: Discrimination based on your sexual orientation or gender identity.

Illegal Actions Employers Cannot Take:

  • Wrongful Termination: Firing you for a discriminatory reason.

  • Promotion Denial: Passing you over for advancement due to bias.

  • Unequal Pay & Benefits: Paying you less than others for substantially similar work.

  • Discriminatory Hiring: Refusing to hire qualified candidates based on a protected class.

  • Hostile Work Environment: Allowing severe or pervasive harassment that makes your job intolerable.

We Also Fight Workplace Harassment and Retaliation

Discrimination often goes hand-in-hand with other illegal conduct. Our firm is highly experienced in handling these complex related claims:

  • Workplace Harassment: This includes sexual harassment (quid pro quo or hostile environment) and harassment based on your race, religion, disability, or other protected status.

  • Illegal Retaliation: It is against the law for your employer to punish you for reporting discrimination, participating in an investigation, or requesting a legal accommodation.

How Our Gainesville Discrimination Attorney Fights for You

Challenging an employer requires a strategic, aggressive, and knowledgeable legal partner. With a background that includes graduating in the top 10% of his class at the University of Florida College of Law and clerking for a federal judge, Michael Massey knows how to build a powerful case.

1. Uncovering Hidden Discrimination
Employers rarely admit to discrimination. They often hide their illegal motives behind sudden negative performance reviews or vague disciplinary actions. We analyze company policies, employment records, and treatment of other employees to expose the truth and prove your case.

2. Taking Proactive Steps to Protect Your Job
If you are still employed but fear you are being targeted, we can intervene. We can draft strategic communications to your employer, putting them on notice of their discriminatory conduct and potential liability if they retaliate against you.

3. Building a Powerful Case for Litigation
We meticulously gather evidence, interview witnesses, and document the full extent of your damages—including lost wages, emotional distress, and harm to your career. We handle all aspects of the legal process, from filing a charge with the EEOC to negotiating a powerful settlement or taking your case to trial.

Don't Face Discrimination Alone. Take the First Step.

If you believe you have been a victim of workplace discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, you have rights. It is crucial to act quickly to protect them. Contact Massey & Duffy, PLLC today for a confidential consultation to understand your legal options.