Is it worth suing a company for discrimination?
Asked by: Amina Hessel | Last update: December 16, 2025Score: 4.9/5 (23 votes)
The answer depends on your claims and willingness to pursue litigation. If your claims are strong and you are invested in the litigation process, it can be very “worth it” to feel you are standing up for accountability, getting compensation for your injuries, and incentivizing the company to change its ways.
Are discrimination lawsuits worth it?
It will not only benefit you, but your co-workers as well because it will likely make your workplace safer by creating a better environment for all. When you sue, you can also obtain a legal remedy for the discrimination you have faced. Employers often offer a significant sum in these cases.
How likely are you to win a discrimination lawsuit?
The chances of winning your discrimination case can vary dramatically depending on the particular circumstances you face. When a lot of evidence has accumulated against your employer, such as emails and history of discriminatory remarks in front of multiple witnesses, your chances of winning a lawsuit are higher.
What happens when you sue a company for discrimination?
Remedies May Include Compensatory & Punitive Damages
Compensatory and punitive damages may be awarded in cases involving intentional discrimination based on a person's race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), religion, disability, or genetic information.
Are discrimination lawsuits hard to prove?
Proving workplace discrimination in California can be one of the most difficult steps in a successful discrimination case. It can also be complex, confusing and frustrating.
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How much money can I get from a discrimination lawsuit?
Average Disability Discrimination Settlements in California
The average settlement for a disability discrimination case can range from around $25,000 to $500,000. Less complex cases often settle for about $100,000 or less, while more involved cases can exceed $1,000,000. But these are just ballpark figures.
Why should you not sue your employer?
A lawsuit represents an expense for your employer and a distraction from their business that exposes them to negative publicity. It is not uncommon for employers to feel a sense of betrayal from employees who file suit against them.
How much money can you get for a civil rights violation?
Depending on your case, your financial settlement may range from thousands to millions of dollars. However, receiving a settlement from your civil rights lawsuit or legal action can take forever.
How much can I sue my employer for emotional distress?
The second type of emotional distress claim is one that is worth more than $50,000 up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the factual circumstances. You would need one or more medical opinions to support this claim and be prepared to have those medical advisors testify in court.
How long does a discrimination lawsuit take?
Potential clients usually ask our lawyers, “How long will it take to settle my case?” The best answer is that “it depends.” Typically, the average employment lawsuit in a California court takes one year or longer to litigate.
What makes a strong discrimination case?
The employee must first present evidence that he is a member of a protected class, he was qualified for the position he held, he suffered an adverse employment action such as being fired, and that he was replaced with another worker who is not a member of that protected class.
How often are discrimination cases won?
95% of EEOC district court cases are successful.
Many individuals who face employment discrimination may file an initial claim on their own (which may not be thorough or convincing) and then do not take further action.
What is the highest paid discrimination lawsuit?
Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight achieved the largest jury verdict in U.S. history in an employment discrimination case. A jury awarded $253 million after finding the pharmaceutical giant liable for gender discrimination in pay, promotions, and relating to pregnancy.
Why is it so hard to win a discrimination case?
In order to win a discrimination lawsuit, the employee must prove that he/she was discriminated against based on race, gender, disability, sex, etc. This can sometimes be a difficult task because employer's and wrongdoers generally deny the claims and do not admit to discrimination of any kind.
What happens when the EEOC finds an employer guilty?
When the EEOC finds an employer guilty, they may attempt conciliation to negotiate changes in procedures and remedies for those affected; if unsuccessful, the victim may file a lawsuit or request the EEOC to file one on their behalf.
How are discrimination damages calculated?
Back pay damages compensate the employee for any wage loss due to the discrimination. The back pay awarded will depend on the difference between the employee's current wages and the wages they would have earned but for the discrimination.
How much can you get for suing your employer for discrimination?
For companies with up to 100 employees, the limit of compensatory damages is $50,000. For those that have between 101 and 200 employees, the limit for damages is $100,000, while companies with between 201 and 500 employees have a limit of $200,000.
Can I sue my employer for a toxic work environment?
Employees who experience a hostile work environment in California have options for seeking redress. They can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or file a lawsuit in court.
How do I sue my employer for stress and anxiety?
You can prove pain and suffering by keeping a log of the workplace violation and your mental anguish. During a lawsuit, you can testify about the emotional harm you've experienced. Coworkers, friends, and family members can also act as witnesses. Written proof can strengthen your case.
What is the average settlement for civil rights?
The average settlement for employment discrimination claims is about $40,000, according to the EEOC. While many cases settle out of court, some proceed to trial, making settlement amounts variable.
How to start a civil rights lawsuit?
- Submit Your Complaint Online. You can use the online portal to submit your complaint directly to CRCL. ...
- Submit a Complaint Using the Fillable PDF Form. Image. ...
- Submit a Complaint by Email, Fax, Phone, or Postal Mail. Image.
What is the most common civil rights violation?
The most common complaint involves allegations of color of law violations. Another common complaint involves racial violence, such as physical assaults, homicides, verbal or written threats, or desecration of property.
Will I lose my job if I sue my employer?
California law, however, prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who engage in protected activities, including filing a lawsuit related to workplace issues.
When should you sue a company?
Common bases for suing a company include breach of contract, negligence, product liability, employment discrimination, and fraud. Be sure to have all relevant documents and evidence to support your claim.
Should I quit my job if I'm suing them?
Important Things to Note
First, it is essential to note that you can continue working for your employer after filing a claim against them. Whether your case against your employer alleges unpaid wages, any form of discrimination, or harassment, you still have the option to continue working.