Despite ongoing efforts to ensure fair treatment in the workplace, wage discrimination continues to impact many workers in New Jersey. Employees may find themselves earning less than colleagues doing the same job—simply due to their gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics. At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we fight to expose and eliminate wage disparities, helping employees claim the pay they’ve rightfully earned.
What Is Wage Discrimination?
Wage discrimination occurs when an employer pays an employee less than others for substantially similar work based on personal characteristics that have no bearing on job performance. These characteristics may include:
- Gender or gender identity
- Race or ethnicity
- Age
- Disability
- National origin
- Sexual orientation
Under both federal law (including the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) and New Jersey law (including the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination and the Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act), wage discrimination is strictly prohibited.
Understanding New Jersey’s Equal Pay Act
The Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act, enacted in 2018, is one of the strongest state-level wage discrimination laws in the country. It requires employers to provide equal pay for “substantially similar work” regardless of job title, and prohibits paying workers less due to any characteristic protected under the NJLAD. The law also:
- Allows employees to recover up to six years of back pay
- Provides for triple damages in cases of proven discrimination
- Prohibits retaliation for discussing or inquiring about compensation
Signs You May Be a Victim of Wage Discrimination
Wage discrimination is often hidden and may only become clear through workplace transparency or when employees compare salaries. Some signs to watch for include:
- Learning that coworkers with similar roles and responsibilities earn more
- Being denied raises or bonuses that others receive
- Getting vague or inconsistent justifications for pay differences
- Historical underpayment that hasn’t been corrected after promotions or new responsibilities
Taking Action Against Pay Inequity
If you suspect wage discrimination, here’s what you can do:
- Document your findings: Keep a record of job responsibilities, performance evaluations, salary discussions, and any disparities you’ve identified.
- Request clarification: Ask HR or management for an explanation and make note of their response.
- Consult with an attorney: Legal professionals can analyze the situation, determine if your rights have been violated, and help you build a strong case.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we evaluate potential wage discrimination claims with precision and discretion. Our team is here to ensure your voice is heard and your pay is fair.
Legal Remedies Available
If your case qualifies under the Equal Pay Act or NJLAD, you may be entitled to:
- Back pay and compensation for lost earnings
- Treble (triple) damages for proven violations
- Emotional distress damages
- Attorney’s fees and legal costs
We’ve helped numerous clients uncover pay disparities and receive the compensation they deserve. You shouldn’t have to settle for less simply because of who you are.
Learn more about your rights by visiting our page on
wage discrimination.
Stand Up for Fair Pay
Every employee deserves to be paid fairly for their work. If you’re concerned about wage discrimination, don’t wait to take action. Contact us for a consultation and let us fight for the compensation you’re owed.
Contact Information:
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027
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