Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida

Blacks given preference in promotion

Several years ago four blacks were promoted to the rank of Lt. in the fire dept. Today the all hold the position of Deputy Chief, making almost twice what I do. They were allowed to attend classes at county expense on county time to obtain their offficer certification for the State of Florida. I will have to pay for myself and attend classes off duty or with time trades to obtain those same certifications. I recently had the opportunity to question the head of Professional Standards about this practice and he said he has had discussions and this was done ''purely to portray ''diversity''. Have I been discriminated agaisnt?


Asked on 6/06/03, 8:45 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Keith Stern Shavitz Law Group

Re: Blacks given preference in promotion

Its possible but you also may have statute of limitations problems. If you don't act on your rights, you lose them! As such, if this discrimination occurred years ago, you may be out of time. However, if it is a continuing act or set of actions, you may be able to pursue it. You should contact a lawyer and/or the EEOC. Feel free to call us at (305) 810-2887 for further assistance.

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Answered on 6/07/03, 12:16 pm
Richard Groff Dye, Deitrich, Prather, Petruff & St.Paul

Re: Blacks given preference in promotion

Depending on when this happened you may have a case of race discrimination. It appears the department is attempting affirmative action without the necessary prerequisites. Depending on what county, you should look for a lawyer with public employer experience especially with paramilitary organizations like fire and police. Please call if you wish to discuss. 941-748-4411

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Answered on 6/09/03, 9:19 am


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