Was Age Discrimination to blame in the firing of Woman with Gray Hair?
Age discrimination is one of those things that is often difficult to prove decisively. As employees age, many feel that they aren't valued as highly by their employers. In some cases, those feelings are brought about by subtle shifts in attitude; in other cases, however, more obvious evidence exists.
In the recent firing of Sandra Rawline, an escrow officer and branch manager for Capital Title of Texas, Rawline alleges that after refusing to dye her gray hair and make other changes to achieve a younger appearance, she was replaced by a woman who is ten years younger than her.
Rawline has been gray since her twenties; she is now 52 years old. Why did her employer allegedly suddenly require her to mask her gray hair? The move appears to have been made due to the relocation of the company.
The company was making a move to Galleria, which is a much more upscale area. In August 2009, when the move was imminent, Rawline alleges that her boss told her to dye her hair; she also claims that she was told to start dressing "younger." When she refused to do so, she claims she was let go.
Naturally, Capital Title of Texas denies the allegations of age discrimination. The company claims that Rawline was let go because her primary customer decided that they no longer wanted to do business with her. This left her with nothing to do, so the company decided to part ways with her.
Rawline denies this, and says that she was never informed of any complaints or issues. Furthermore, she says that Capital Title of Texas did not contest her unemployment benefits claim. If the employer let her go for cause, however, it would not be obligated to pay out on such a claim.
Anyone who finds themselves in Rawline's shoes needs to hire a competent Florida employment lawyer. Most companies retain attorneys of their own, so it is nearly impossible for an ex-employee to get anywhere without the right representation.
If you are getting older and are let go because of your age, it is imperative to get in touch with a Florida employment lawyer right away.
Florida Employment Lawyersare well-versed in the nuances of age discrimination laws and will be able to guide you through the process of seeking compensation. Protect your rights, and don't let unfair termination get in the way of a successful life and career.
Brian F. LaBovick, Esq.
Esther Uria LaBovick, Esq.
Mark R. Hanson, Esq.
Joseph R. Fields Jr., Esq.
Marcie Dodson, J.D.