No one should have to hide who they are to feel safe at work. At Lebau & Neuworth, we stand with LGBTQ+ employees who’ve been mistreated, harassed, or pushed out of jobs simply because of their identity. We help people take action against employers who break the law—and we work to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
If you’ve faced discrimination at work because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, you may have legal options. Our attorneys are ready to listen, explain your rights, and help you move forward.
What LGBTQ+ Discrimination Looks Like
Discrimination doesn’t always look like a firing or demotion—it can be more subtle or more persistent. It could mean being passed over for promotions, being excluded from meetings or events, hearing slurs or comments, or being held to different standards than coworkers. It may involve being misgendered repeatedly, denied health benefits for your partner, or disciplined unfairly for minor things.
In some cases, it’s a single incident. In others, it’s a pattern that builds over time. No matter what form it takes, you don’t have to tolerate it—and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Legal Protections for LGBTQ+ Employees in Maryland
Both federal and Maryland state laws provide strong protections for LGBTQ+ workers. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, it is illegal for employers to discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This was made explicit by the Supreme Court in Bostock v. Clayton County (2020).
Maryland law also protects against workplace discrimination on the basis of gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. These protections cover hiring, firing, pay, promotions, harassment, and other conditions of employment—even in smaller workplaces where federal law might not apply.
How Our Maryland LGBTQ+ Discrimination Lawyers Can Help
At Lebau & Neuworth, we help employees enforce their rights. Our employment attorneys guide clients through filing internal complaints, administrative claims (with the EEOC or Maryland Commission on Civil Rights), and—when necessary—civil lawsuits.
We help clients recover financial damages, push for workplace changes, and make sure employers are held accountable. Our lawyers also handle related claims like retaliation, wrongful termination, and hostile work environments, which often go hand-in-hand with LGBTQ+ discrimination.
Experienced LGBTQ+ Employment Attorneys in Baltimore and Across Maryland
We’ve spent decades fighting on behalf of employees, not employers. We’re proud to represent LGBTQ+ workers in Baltimore, Columbia, Towson, Silver Spring, Annapolis, and throughout Maryland. Our team is known for its focus on labor and employment law, our depth of experience, and our commitment to justice. We don’t just resolve cases—we help rebuild our clients’ sense of control, security, and dignity in the workplace.
Contact Our LGBTQ+ Discrimination Law Firm in Maryland
If you’ve been targeted, mistreated, or pushed out of a job because of your LGBTQ+ identity, you don’t have to navigate this alone. We can help you protect your rights and pursue justice. Contact Lebau & Neuworth today for a confidential consultation. We’re here to listen—and take action when you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About LGBTQ+ Workplace Discrimination
Can my employer fire me for being gay or transgender?
No. Under federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act), it’s illegal to fire someone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Maryland law offers even stronger protections. If you were fired for being LGBTQ+, you may have a legal claim for wrongful termination.
What should I do if I’m being harassed at work for being LGBTQ+?
Start by documenting what’s happening—dates, times, who was involved, and what was said or done. If you feel safe doing so, report it to HR or a supervisor. Whether or not your employer takes action, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your legal rights and next steps.
What if I’m treated unfairly during the hiring process?
The law protects job applicants as well as employees. If you were denied an interview, rejected without explanation, or treated differently during the hiring process because you’re LGBTQ+, you may be able to bring a claim for discrimination.
How long do I have to file a discrimination claim in Maryland?
You generally have 180 to 300 days from the date of the discrimination to file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or one year to file with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR). However, deadlines can vary depending on your case—so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
