Employment attorney Mark Shank: economic crisis is fueling increase in complaints
Age discrimination complaints are skyrocketing, up nearly 30 percent in 2008, according to the EEOC and an interesting story in today's NY Times. While the workforce over age 45 enjoys a better rate of employment than the population as a whole, the wave of layoffs means more older workers are receiving pink slips and entering a dismal job market. Once unemployed, workers over age 45 face a longer job search and steeper drops in earnings.

"Considering the down economy and rise in layoffs, it's perhaps not surprising that discrimination claims are on the rise," says Mark Shank, a labor and employment attorney with Dallas' Gruber Hurst Johansen & Hail.. "We may see an even greater number of these cases filed in 2009." Shank says more senior workers may take legal action to recover lost jobs or wages because it's often difficult for them to find new employment. "Recent judicial rulings have also made it easier for employees to allege age bias, so companies should be very mindful of their exposure when considering workforce reductions." To interview Mr. Shank about employment matters, contact Barry Pound at 800-559-4534 or barry@androvett.com.