Equity & Civil Rights Reviews
We provide comprehensive evaluations of organizational policies and practices to promote compliance with civil rights and equity laws.
$505M
The EEOC reports that in 2018 alone, employers paid over $505 million to settle discrimination lawsuits.
$130M
The Department of Justice reports that in FY 2021, they secured over $130 million in settlements for ADA violations.
$160K
The average cost for businesses to defend and settle employment charges is about $160,000.
$486M
In 2019, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) secured $486 million for victims of discrimination in private, federal, state, and local government workplaces.
The Equal Pay Act is a U.S. federal law that prohibits wage discrimination on the basis of sex, requiring that men and women be given equal pay for equal work in the same establishment.
Ignoring complaints and failing to address discrimination can lead to hefty settlements and legal fees. We offer comprehensive evaluations of organizational policies and practices to promote compliance with civil rights and equity laws. Our focus is on identifying and addressing potential discrimination and unequal treatment across all protected classes, with the goal of fostering inclusive, equitable workplaces and institutions.
Our approach is innovative, reflecting our commitment to creating fair and respectful environments for everyone. We assist in promoting adherence to civil rights laws, developing equitable policies, offering guidance on anti-discrimination measures, resolving legal disputes, and advancing equal rights within organizations.
Overview
Businesses that fail to uphold anti-discrimination and equal opportunity standards face significant legal risks, including costly lawsuits and reputational harm. We partner with organizations to advance equality, ensure compliance with civil rights laws, and protect against potential liabilities. Our commitment to justice and equality helps businesses build a more inclusive and legally compliant workplace.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public.
Compliance Benefits
Companies today face heightened expectations from employees, customers, investors, and regulators regarding equity, diversity, and inclusion. Failure to effectively address these critical areas can result in significant legal, financial, and reputational consequences. Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive, independent audits and detailed analyses of organizational policies, procedures, and products. By pinpointing potential risks and opportunities, we help organizations proactively build inclusive, legally compliant, and resilient workplaces that align with stakeholder expectations and strengthen organizational credibility.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Diversity Success
As equity and diversity become increasingly important to employees, customers, and investors, companies are encouraged to make meaningful progress. Our independent reviews provide actionable insights to help organizations identify and address potential gaps in diversity and inclusivity efforts. By fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, companies build trust within their teams and position themselves to meet the growing expectations of stakeholders. A genuine commitment to diversity cultivates a culture of belonging and provides a competitive advantage in attracting talent, securing investment, and managing potential regulatory scrutiny.
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a U.S. labor law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for certain family and medical reasons, with the continuation of group health insurance coverage.
Lawyers' Role
Navigating equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives can be legally complex and operationally challenging. Our attorneys offer clear, practical guidance tailored to the unique circumstances of each organization. We share actionable recommendations and insightful analysis of best practices, helping to ensure policies and programs comply with relevant laws and genuinely promote an inclusive organizational culture. With strategic, thoughtful support from our team, organizations can effectively mitigate legal risks and reinforce a positive, equitable workplace reputation.
How We Can Help
Compliance Audits
Conduct comprehensive reviews of workplace policies and practices to assess compliance with federal and Massachusetts civil rights laws, including Title VII, the ADA, Chapter 151B, and the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act. Provide actionable recommendations to mitigate risks and promote equity.
Policy Development and Risk Management
Assist in creating, reviewing, and refining workplace policies to address discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Identify potential risks and implement proactive strategies to reduce legal exposure while aligning with best practices.
Workplace Training
Develop and deliver tailored anti-discrimination and harassment training programs for employees and management. Ensure training complies with EEOC guidelines and Massachusetts law, with updates to reflect evolving legal requirements.
Accessibility Compliance and Inclusivity Initiatives
Advise businesses on implementing ADA-compliant practices, such as physical accommodations, website accessibility, and assistive technology. Provide guidance on inclusivity measures to meet Massachusetts-specific laws like the Public Accommodations Law.
Equal Pay Audits
Analyze pay practices to uncover disparities and promote compliance with the Equal Pay Act and Massachusetts Equal Pay Act (MEPA). Recommend practical steps to foster pay equity and transparency.
Internal Investigations
Conduct independent, confidential investigations into allegations of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Provide clear findings and actionable recommendations to address workplace concerns and mitigate liabilities.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Program Development
Collaborate with organizations to design and implement DEI initiatives aligned with legal standards and measurable goals. Support efforts to enhance workplace culture and foster an inclusive environment.
Strategic Advising
Provide senior management with expert guidance on complex equity issues, including pay equity, workplace diversity, and compliance with evolving Massachusetts and federal regulations.
Litigation Support
Represent individuals and groups in pursuing discrimination and retaliation claims under Title VII, Chapter 151B, the ADA, and other relevant laws. Advocate for remedies, including damages and injunctive relief.
Crisis Management and Legal Response
Offer immediate support to organizations facing lawsuits, government investigations, or public scrutiny related to civil rights violations.
ESG and Civil Rights Integration
Advise businesses on integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals with civil rights compliance. Focus on initiatives like pay equity, anti-discrimination, and accessibility to align corporate values with actionable equity objectives.
Accessibility in Public Accommodations
Help businesses comply with Massachusetts Public Accommodations Law and federal statutes by improving accessibility in physical spaces and services. Help create inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities.
