Central Coast Cancer Discrimination Attorney
Top Cancer Discrimination Lawyer on the Central Coast
Fighting for Your Rights
Facing a cancer diagnosis is already one of the hardest battles anyone can go through. It’s emotional, physically taxing, and can be financially draining. The last thing anyone should have to worry about is being treated unfairly at work because of their diagnosis. Yet, cancer discrimination in the workplace is an unfortunate reality for many. If you or a loved one has been discriminated against because of cancer, you don’t have to go through this alone.
I’m John McCarthy, a dedicated employment attorney based right here on the Central Coast, and I’m here to help you navigate the legal system, stand up for your rights, and fight back against unfair treatment. My goal is to make sure you’re treated with the respect and dignity you deserve, and that no employer can take advantage of your situation.
What is Cancer Discrimination?
Let’s break it down. Cancer discrimination happens when an employer treats you unfairly because of your cancer diagnosis. This could mean denying you a promotion, reducing your work hours, firing you, or refusing to make reasonable accommodations that allow you to do your job while undergoing treatment. Legally, this type of discrimination is prohibited under both federal and California law, but that doesn’t stop some employers from trying to get away with it.
You might already feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders, but when your job—your livelihood—is threatened because of your health, it’s not just unfair, it’s illegal.
Know Your Rights
In California, the law is clear: you cannot be discriminated against because you have cancer or are perceived to have cancer. Under both the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees with cancer are protected from discrimination. This applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, job duties, and accommodations.
Cancer, in many cases, is considered a disability, and employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to help you perform your job while managing your condition. Reasonable accommodations could include:
Allowing you to work from home or on a modified schedule while undergoing treatment
Adjusting your workload to account for any physical limitations
Providing leave for medical appointments or treatment
If your employer refuses to make these adjustments or penalizes you for needing them, you could have a strong case for cancer discrimination.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Many of my clients come to me after they’ve already experienced serious mistreatment at work, and they’re feeling frustrated and powerless. For example, one client was demoted after disclosing his cancer diagnosis. He was still fully capable of doing his job, but his employer assumed he wouldn’t be able to keep up. This is a common misconception, and one that employers simply cannot act on.
Another client was denied time off for chemotherapy treatments because her employer said it wasn’t “convenient” for the business. No one should have to choose between getting life-saving treatment and keeping their job. We fought back, and the result was not only justice for my client but also changes to that company’s policies to prevent future discrimination.
These stories aren’t just isolated incidents. Across Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Luis Obispo, San Benito, and Santa Barbara Counties, many employees with cancer face similar challenges. I’m here to ensure that you don’t have to fight these battles alone.
How We Can Help You
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against because of cancer, the first step is to reach out to a trusted attorney who understands both the emotional and legal complexities of these cases. That’s where I come in.
When you work with me, you’re not just another case number. I’m deeply passionate about helping people who have been wronged by large companies. You’ll always get direct communication with me, not an assistant or junior attorney. I know how stressful this situation can be, and I’m committed to being by your side every step of the way.
Here’s how we can start:
Free, Confidential Case Evaluation: I offer a free case evaluation to anyone who thinks they’ve been discriminated against at work because of cancer. It’s quick, confidential, and it goes straight to my inbox. I’ll review your case and let you know if I think we can help. If I can help, I’ll schedule you for a free consultation. And if I can’t personally take on your case, I’ll point you in the right direction.
Understanding Your Story: Every case is unique, just like every person’s cancer journey. I want to hear your story and understand exactly how your employer has mistreated you. This helps me build the strongest possible case to protect your rights.
Taking Action: If we decide to move forward together, I’ll get to work right away, gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and preparing a case that puts you in the best position to get justice. Whether it’s negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court, I’ll be there to fight for you.
Employers Have Legal Responsibilities
One of the most empowering things I can tell my clients is this: Your employer has legal responsibilities. They don’t get to decide how to treat you just because of your cancer diagnosis. Employers in California are required by law to make reasonable accommodations and to treat employees fairly, regardless of their health conditions.
For example, if you work in Santa Barbara County and you need to take time off for medical treatment, your employer must work with you to accommodate your needs. This isn’t just good practice; it’s the law. If they don’t, they can and should be held accountable.
Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back
I know that standing up to your employer can feel intimidating, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a cancer diagnosis. You might be worried about losing your job or facing retaliation, or how to pay the bills now that you’re out of work. But here’s the thing: It is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for exercising your rights. You are protected.
Taking legal action doesn’t mean you’re “suing for millions” or trying to take down a company—it means standing up for your rights and ensuring that no one else has to go through what you’ve experienced.
If you’re worried about what comes next, take a deep breath. I’ve handled many cases like yours, and I’m here to walk you through the process and protect you from any further harm. You’ve already been through enough. Let me handle the legal stuff while you focus on your health.
Why Hire a Central Coast Attorney?
You might wonder why it’s important to hire a local attorney when there are so many options out there. Here’s why:
Local Knowledge: I’m based on the Central Coast and understand the unique dynamics of our region. Whether your case is in Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, or Santa Barbara, or beyond, I know the courts, the employers, and the strategies that work best here.
Personalized Attention: When you work with a local attorney like me, you’re not just another number. You’re a neighbor, and I take that seriously. I know that dealing with cancer discrimination is more than just a legal issue—it’s deeply personal. I’m here to give you the support and attention you deserve.
Community Roots: I grew up on the Central Coast and returned here with my family to help people in our community. I’m not just a lawyer passing through, or advertising—I set out, I kicked ass in the big cities, and I came home because I’m invested in making sure that workers here are treated fairly and with respect.
What Can You Recover in a Cancer Discrimination Case?
If you’ve been discriminated against because of cancer, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
Lost wages: If you were unfairly fired, demoted, or had your hours cut, you could recover the pay you lost.
Emotional distress damages: Cancer is already stressful enough. If your employer’s actions caused you additional emotional pain, you could be compensated for that harm.
Punitive damages: In some cases, employers act with such disregard for the law that they can be ordered to pay punitive damages, which are meant to punish their wrongdoing and deter others from doing the same.
Attorney’s fees and court costs: Many cases allow for the recovery of legal costs, so you’re not burdened with the expense of pursuing justice.
Let’s Take the First Step Together
If you’re dealing with cancer discrimination, I want you to know that you’re not alone. You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and I’m here to make sure that happens. I’ve helped many people across the Central Coast, from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo, to Santa Barbara, stand up for their rights and hold employers accountable. And I can help you, too.
It all starts with a conversation. Reach out to me today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Together, we’ll fight for the justice you deserve, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.
Get your free case evaluation today —I’m here for you, ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can my employer fire me because I have cancer?
No, it is illegal for your employer to fire you because of a cancer diagnosis or because they assume you cannot perform your job due to your condition. If you’ve been fired or faced other discriminatory actions, you may have a legal case.
What qualifies as reasonable accommodation for employees with cancer?
Reasonable accommodations depend on your specific needs but can include things like flexible work hours for medical appointments, working from home, or modified job duties. If your employer refuses to provide accommodations, they may be violating the law.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a cancer discrimination case?
I work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront. I only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about legal fees piling up while you’re already dealing with medical costs and other financial concerns.
How long do I have to file a claim for cancer discrimination?
In California, the timeline to file a discrimination case is often one year from the date of the discriminatory act (typically a termination or a demotion, accompanied by some bogus reason). However, this can vary depending on the specifics of your case. Some cases require legal action in as little as six months. It’s important to act quickly to ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines. Contacting an attorney early ensures your rights are protected.
What should I do if I think I’m being discriminated against?
We have a more comprehensive guide on what to do if you’re experiencing problems at work. If you suspect you’re facing cancer discrimination, document everything. Keep records of any emails, meetings, or conversations where your diagnosis was discussed, and any changes in your job duties, pay, or hours. Then, contact an experienced attorney to review your case and determine the next steps.
We’re Here for You
Cancer is a tough enough journey without the added burden of workplace discrimination. If your employer has treated you unfairly because of your diagnosis, it’s time to take action. With my experience, local knowledge, and commitment to justice, I’ll stand with you every step of the way. From Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara, I’ve helped many workers fight back against unfair treatment, and I can help you too.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Whether you’re just starting to notice signs of discrimination or have already experienced unfair treatment, we can work together to protect your rights and ensure you get the fair treatment you deserve. Let’s make sure your employer plays by the rules, so you can focus on what matters most—your health and well-being.
Contact me today, and let’s start building your case.
Why Choose John McCarthy?
Experience You Can Trust: I’ve handled numerous cancer discrimination cases and know the legal landscape inside and out. You’ll have a dedicated advocate on your side, with years of experience fighting for people just like you.
Personalized Service: I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every cancer journey is different, and so is every case. I’ll work closely with you to understand your specific needs and goals.
Compassionate Counsel: I know how emotional and stressful this time can be, and I approach every case with compassion and empathy. You’ll never feel like just another file on my desk.
A Proven Track Record: I’ve successfully taken on large corporations and won, recovering millions for my clients. I’m not afraid to take on the tough cases, and I’ll fight just as hard for you.
So if you’re dealing with cancer discrimination, don’t wait. The sooner we start, the sooner we can work to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact Us
Ready to take the first step? Get your free case evaluation below. I’ll personally review your case, and we’ll go from there. If I can’t help, I’ll get you pointed in the right direction. If I think I can hep, I’ll get you scheduled for a free consultation. The consultation is free, confidential, and you’ll know right away what your options are. Together, we can make sure that no employer takes advantage of you during one of the hardest times in your life.
Let’s fight this together.
Service Areas
I proudly serve clients across California’s Central Coast, and beyond, including:
Santa Cruz County: Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola, Scotts Valley
San Benito County: Hollister, San Juan Bautista
Monterey County: Monterey, Salinas, Carmel, Seaside, Marina, Pacific Grove
San Luis Obispo County: San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande
Santa Barbara County: Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Goleta, Lompoc, Solvang
If you live in any of these areas and are facing cancer discrimination at work, I’m ready to help. Get your free case evaluation today!