Job Searching for the Disabled
The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in order to protect disabled individuals from unreasonable discrimination both in the workplace and while searching for work. The ADA seeks to help individuals with a disability find and keep suitable jobs, and applies to businesses with 15 or more employees. Places of employment that discriminate based on an applicant’s disability are in violation of the law. Disabled job seekers should know their rights under the ADA in order to ensure that they do not mistakenly allow their rights to be violated.
If you believe that you have been illegally denied employment due to your disability, you may be entitled to pursue legal action. The Austin discrimination lawyers at Melton & Kumler, LLP, are here to help. Contact us by calling 512-330-0017 today.
Job Searching Tips
An employer is not allowed to ask about your disability during the interview process, although you may ask for reasonable accommodations on the application form. After offering you the job, the employer may only ask questions that directly relate to your ability to complete the job – not just your disability in general. Some other ways you may increase your chance of success during your job search:
- Ensure that you have considered how your disability might bear on your ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the position for which you are applying
- Avoid answering unreasonable questions about your disability or sharing more about your condition than is necessary
- Utilize government resources for disabled individuals
After you are hired, you may ask your employer for reasonable accommodations relating to your disability. If you experience discrimination directly relating to your disability, the offending party deserves to be held accountable under anti-discrimination laws.
Contact Us
Searching for a suitable job while one is disabled can be difficult enough without the introduction of discriminatory practices by prospective employers. If you have been denied an employment opportunity due to improper consideration of your disability, an Austin discrimination lawyer may be able to help. Contact Melton & Kumler, LLP, by calling 512-330-0017 to discuss your case today.