Read How Lilly Ledbetter’s Fight for Equal Pay Impacts You Today – and How We Can Help Protect Your Rights Against Wage Discrimination
On October 12, 2024, the world lost a true hero in the fight for equal pay and workplace justice—Lilly Ledbetter. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for wage equality not only changed the legal landscape for employees across the United States but left a lasting legacy that continues to empower workers today. Her courageous stand against pay discrimination led to the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, a landmark law that remains critical in protecting workers’ rights.
At Derek Smith Law Group, we honor Lilly Ledbetter’s legacy by continuing the fight for fair pay and equal treatment in the workplace. As an employment discrimination and harassment law firm, we work tirelessly to protect the rights of employees who face wage discrimination, harassment, and other unfair practices.
Lilly Ledbetter’s Fight for Equal Pay
Lilly Ledbetter’s story began when she discovered that, for years, she had been paid significantly less than her male counterparts at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Although her pay discrimination case was initially dismissed by the courts due to a technicality regarding the statute of limitations, her fight did not end there. She took her case to Congress, where her testimony and advocacy led to the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009.
This critical law ensures that the 180-day statute of limitations for filing a pay discrimination claim resets with each discriminatory paycheck. In other words, it grants employees more time to challenge unfair pay practices—giving them the ability to seek justice and secure their rightful wages.
In an interview, Ledbetter said, “I didn’t start out wanting to be an advocate, but it seemed like the right thing to do when I realized that other women, and even men, were facing the same pay discrimination I had experienced” (Tory Burch Foundation).
How We Protect Employees from Pay Discrimination and Fight for Fair Treatment?
At Derek Smith Law Group, we see firsthand how discriminatory pay practices impact employees and their families. Pay inequality remains a pervasive issue in the workplace, and many individuals are unaware of their rights or fear retaliation for speaking out. This fear of losing their livelihood can be overwhelming, preventing workers from seeking justice.
That’s why we are here to help. If you suspect you are being paid less due to your gender, race, or other protected characteristics, our team of dedicated wage discrimination lawyers is ready to fight for you. We understand the challenges employees face when confronting employers about wage discrepancies, and we are committed to helping you secure the compensation and fair treatment you deserve.
Our firm has extensive experience advocating for employee rights. Since 1995, we’ve fought for victims of wage discrimination, sexual harassment, and other forms of workplace injustice. As one of the largest plaintiff law firms representing employees in discrimination and harassment cases, we have secured over $400 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients, including the largest emotional distress verdict ever upheld in the U.S. for an employment law case. We provide equal pay law services and protect employee rights across all industries.
Why Wage Discrimination Still Exists and How We Can Help You?
Wage discrimination persists for many reasons, including unconscious bias, outdated practices, and a lack of transparency. Employees are often hesitant to question pay disparities for fear of retaliation or job loss. At Derek Smith Law Group, we are here to break that cycle of fear.
We offer free and confidential consultations with employment lawyers, and you do not pay any fees unless we win your case. If you have questions about your rights under the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act or believe you may be experiencing pay discrimination, call us today at 800-807-2209. We are here to support you, protect your rights, and hold employers accountable for unlawful practices.
Call Us Today for a Free Consultation on Equal Pay and Wage Discrimination
Lilly Ledbetter’s fight for equal pay has paved the way for millions of workers to challenge wage discrimination. Her courage reminds us that progress is possible, and we are proud to continue this fight, helping employees achieve justice in the workplace.
At Derek Smith Law Group, our experience in employment discrimination and harassment law spans decades. We are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients and have a proven track record of success. Let us help you navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 800-807-2209 for your free consultation.
