Do you offer a free consultation for startups?

Yes. The Rhodes Law Firm offers a free initial consultation — no obligation, no pressure.

What legal services do you offer for startups and entrepreneurs?

We offer corporate formation, contract drafting, outside general counsel, IP protection, regulatory compliance, and investor agreement support for startups in Louisiana and nationally.

Do you handle divorce and child custody cases in Louisiana?

Yes. The Rhodes Law Firm provides compassionate family law representation including divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, spousal support, and adoption throughout Louisiana.

How much does a family law attorney cost in New Orleans?

The Rhodes Law Firm offers a free initial consultation so you can understand your options before making any financial commitment. Contact us at (504) 475-0975 to get started.

Where is The Rhodes Law Firm located?

The firm is based in New Orleans, Louisiana and serves clients statewide and nationally.

How do I contact The Rhodes Law Firm?

Call (504) 475-0975 or schedule a consultation at therhodeslawfirm.com.

What are the elements of a discrimination claim?

To establish a prima facie case of employment discrimination, an employee typically must show: (1) they belong to a protected class; (2) they were qualified for the position; (3) they suffered an adverse employment action; and (4) similarly situated employees outside their protected class were treated more favorably. This shifts the burden to the employer to articulate a legitimate, non-discriminatory reason, which the employee must then show is pretextual.

What is an adverse employment action in a discrimination case?

An adverse employment action is a material change in the terms, conditions, or privileges of employment. Classic adverse actions: termination, demotion, failure to promote, failure to hire, salary reduction, involuntary transfer to a less desirable position. Minor inconveniences or slights generally do not qualify.

What is a protected class?

A protected class is a group of people protected by anti-discrimination law. Under Title VII: race, color, religion, sex, national origin. Under ADA: disability or perceived disability. Under ADEA: age 40 and older. Under Louisiana HRA: same as federal law for employers with 20+ employees.

I think I was discriminated against but I can't prove it. Do I still have a case?

Probably yes — most discrimination cases are built on circumstantial evidence, not a smoking gun. Direct evidence of discriminatory intent (a supervisor saying 'I fired you because you're Black') is rare. Courts allow plaintiffs to establish discrimination through circumstantial evidence: timing, comparator evidence, pretext, statistical patterns, and the employer's shifting explanations.

What should I document if I think I'm being discriminated against?

Keep a private written log (outside work systems): dates, times, what was said or done, who witnessed it. Save all relevant emails, texts, and documents. Note any comparator employees who are outside your protected class and treated more favorably. Keep copies of your performance reviews. Document any complaints you make and the employer's response.

Employment Law Guide

Do I Have an Employment Discrimination Claim?

Elements · Evidence · Protected Classes · What to Do Next

You may have an employment discrimination claim if you: belong to a protected class (race, sex, disability, age 40+, religion, national origin); were qualified for your position; suffered an adverse employment action (fired, demoted, denied promotion); and were treated worse than similarly situated employees outside your protected class. Most discrimination cases are built on circumstantial evidence. In Louisiana, the EEOC filing deadline is 300 days from the discriminatory act.

Written & Reviewed By

Jonathan M. Rhodes

Attorney at Law — The Rhodes Law Firm

Practice Areas: Employment Law — Workplace Discrimination · Last Updated: September 27, 2026

Serving: Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana

The Four Elements of a Prima Facie Discrimination Case

You belong to a protected class

Race, color, sex, religion, national origin (Title VII); disability or perceived disability (ADA); age 40+ (ADEA).

You were qualified for the job or position

You met the legitimate qualifications — education, experience, skills — for the position you held or sought.

You suffered an adverse employment action

Termination, demotion, failure to promote, pay cut, or other material change in terms of employment.

Similarly situated employees outside your class were treated more favorably

Employees in similar positions, with similar qualifications and performance, who are not in your protected class, were treated better.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

Jonathan M. Rhodes can review the facts of your situation and help you determine whether you have a viable discrimination claim. Free, confidential consultation.

Schedule a Consultation (504) 475-0975

Related Employment Law Resources

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Types of discrimination claims.

EEOC Claims

Filing your discrimination charge.

Was I Wrongfully Terminated?

Signs of wrongful termination.

Employment Law Hub

All employment law services.

Employment Discrimination Claims — FAQ

Protect Your Workplace Rights

300-day EEOC deadline. Free initial consultation — New Orleans, Metairie & Southeast Louisiana.

Schedule a Free Consultation (504) 475-0975