Marital status may not seem like something that should affect someone’s job, but it happens more often than many realize. Whether single, married, divorced or widowed, employees sometimes find that their relationship status influences how they are treated at work. What is worse is that this kind of discrimination often goes unnoticed or unreported.
It might show up in subtle ways: being passed over for promotions, left out of social events or asked inappropriate questions during job interviews. This can create a workplace culture where employees feel judged or less valued, not for their skills or performance, but for their personal lives.
Love life vs. work life
Many people do not realize that California’s law protects against discrimination based on marital status. Unfortunately, the workplace can feel unbalanced when personal lives are judged more than professional skills. This bias can quietly creep in toward:
- Singles: They may be asked to work late or on weekends more often, under the assumption they have “no one waiting at home.”
- Married employees: They might be overlooked for roles that involve travel, as bosses may assume they cannot or are not flexible.
- Divorced: These individuals sometimes face personal questions or negative attitudes that affect how they are seen by management.
- Domestic partners may not receive the same benefits or recognition unless the employer is fully inclusive.
It is important to note that this kind of treatment not only affects morale but can also cross legal lines. In California, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits employers from making decisions based on someone’s marital status.
While most companies want to foster respectful and fair environments, not all have policies that clearly address this issue. If someone suspects they have been treated unfairly at work due to their relationship status, it is important to seek legal help by contacting our firm. Legal support can offer clarity, confidence and a way to push back on unfair practices.