Workplace Issues in New Jersey
Key New Jersey Law
New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, N.J.S.A. 10:5-12 (LAD)
New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination (LAD) is one of the oldest and most comprehensive state anti-discrimination laws in the United States. It prohibits employment discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, marital status, domestic partnership or civil union status, familial status, liability for military service, disability, or atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait. It applies to employers with 1 or more employees.
View official statuteProcedural Details in New Jersey
New Jersey Agencies & Resources
New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR)
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under the LAD. Workers have 180 days to file with DCR or may file directly in Superior Court within 2 years.
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development — Wage and Hour
Enforces New Jersey minimum wage, paid sick leave, and wage payment laws. Handles wage claims.
New Jersey Department of Labor — Family Leave Insurance
Administers New Jersey's Family Leave Insurance program — up to 12 weeks of paid family leave benefits funded by employee payroll contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue my employer directly without filing with the NJ DCR?
Yes. Unlike most state anti-discrimination laws, New Jersey's LAD allows workers to file directly in Superior Court within two years of the discriminatory act, bypassing the Division on Civil Rights entirely. Alternatively, workers can file with the DCR within 180 days for agency investigation. Both paths are available.
Does New Jersey have paid family leave?
Yes. New Jersey's Family Leave Insurance (FLI) program provides eligible workers up to 12 weeks of paid leave to bond with a new child or care for a seriously ill family member. Benefits are paid at 85% of wages (up to a weekly cap) and are funded through employee payroll deductions.
What is New Jersey's minimum wage?
New Jersey's minimum wage is $15.49 per hour for most employees as of January 2024, adjusted annually for inflation. Smaller seasonal employers and agricultural workers may have different rates. New Jersey has one of the higher minimum wages in the northeastern U.S.
Does New Jersey require paid sick leave?
Yes. New Jersey's Earned Sick Leave Law requires employers with 1 or more employees to provide at least 40 hours of earned sick leave per year. Leave accrues at one hour per 30 hours worked and may be used for the employee's illness, preventive care, or to address domestic violence situations.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in New Jersey?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.