Disability Discrimination Attorneys in D.C.

Disability discrimination remains a serious problem in workplaces across Washington, D.C. Employees with physical or mental impairments often face barriers to hiring, promotions, accommodations, or continued employment—even though they’re fully qualified to do the job. If you’ve been treated unfairly because of a disability, or denied reasonable accommodations, you may have strong legal grounds to take action.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we represent employees throughout Washington, D.C. in disability discrimination claims. We help workers assert their rights, demand accommodations, and hold employers accountable when the law is violated. Whether you’re still employed or were recently fired, we’re here to protect your future and your dignity.

What Is Disability Discrimination?

Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats a qualified individual unfavorably because they have a disability, a history of disability, or are perceived as having a disability. It also includes the failure to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship to the employer.

In D.C., employees are protected under both federal and local laws:

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
  • Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (applies to federal employees and contractors)
  • District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA)

The DCHRA is particularly strong, offering broader protections than federal law. For example, it applies to all employers regardless of size and covers a wider range of disabilities.

Examples of Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination can take many forms, some obvious and others more subtle. Common examples include:

  • Refusing to hire someone because of a known or suspected disability
  • Terminating or demoting an employee after learning of a medical condition
  • Denying reasonable accommodations such as modified schedules, assistive devices, or leave for medical treatment
  • Creating a hostile work environment based on disability
  • Retaliating against an employee who requests accommodations or files a complaint
  • Failing to engage in an interactive process to determine possible accommodations

You don’t have to endure this treatment. With the right legal support, you can fight back.

What Is a Reasonable Accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is any change in the workplace or the way things are typically done that enables an employee with a disability to perform the essential functions of their job. Common accommodations include:

  • Modified work schedules
  • Remote work or telecommuting arrangements
  • Accessible workspaces
  • Ergonomic equipment or assistive technology
  • Reassignment to a vacant position
  • Extended medical leave

Employers are required to engage in an interactive process with employees who request accommodations. If your employer failed to take your request seriously or outright denied it without justification, they may be in violation of the law.

Your Rights Under the D.C. Human Rights Act

The District of Columbia Human Rights Act is one of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the country. It:

  • Applies to employers of all sizes
  • Protects against discrimination based on both actual and perceived disabilities
  • Requires reasonable accommodations unless it would cause undue hardship
  • Covers public and private employers, including government agencies

The DCHRA allows employees to file complaints with the D.C. Office of Human Rights (OHR) or pursue claims directly in court. We can help you decide the best path based on your circumstances and goals.

How We Can Help

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we help workers with disabilities assert their rights and pursue justice. Our services include:

  • Evaluating potential claims under ADA, the DCHRA, or both
  • Helping you request accommodations through the proper channels
  • Representing you in negotiations with your employer
  • Filing complaints with the EEOC or D.C. Office of Human Rights
  • Litigating disability discrimination and retaliation cases in court
  • Seeking remedies including reinstatement, back pay, and damages

You deserve to be judged by your qualifications—not your health status. We’ll fight to make sure your rights are recognized and respected.

Federal Employees and Disability Rights

If you work for the federal government or a federal contractor, your rights are protected under the Rehabilitation Act, which parallels the ADA. The process for enforcing your rights differs, involving:

  • Contacting an EEO counselor within 45 days
  • Filing an internal complaint with your agency
  • Requesting a hearing before an EEOC administrative judge

We have extensive experience guiding federal employees through this process.

Don’t Wait to Act

There are strict deadlines for disability discrimination claims:

  • Under federal law (ADA), you generally must file a charge with the EEOC within 300 days
  • Under the DCHRA, you must file with the OHR within one year
  • Federal employees face even shorter deadlines

The sooner you contact an attorney, the more options you’ll have—and the better positioned you’ll be to protect your rights.

Speak with a Disability Discrimination Lawyer in Washington, D.C.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we are committed to advocating for employees facing unfair treatment based on disability. Whether you’re seeking accommodations, recovering from wrongful termination, or considering legal action, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

  • Phone: (202) 474-8500
  • Website: www.mundacalaw.com
  • Location: Washington, D.C.
  • Serving: Employees throughout the District of Columbia and surrounding areas

Let’s fight for your dignity, your rights, and your career.