California has long been one of the most progressive US states in terms of LGBTQ rights. The state legalized same-sex sexual activity in 1976, legalized same-sex domestic partnerships in 1999 and briefly legalized same sex marriage in 2008, before the law was overturned. After the U.S. Supreme Court refused to recognize the legal standing of same-sex marriage opponents on June 26, 2013, the ban was no longer enforceable, allowing same-sex marriages to recommence shortly thereafter.[1] Same-sex adoption has also been legal statewide since 2003, allowing stepchild adoption and joint adoption between same-sex couples.

California also adopted statewide legal protections for sexual orientation and gender identity and expression in 2003. Let’s take a closer look at the state of LGBTQ protections in California, and the options you have if you’re facing discrimination.

How California Law Protects its LGBTQ Residents Against Discrimination

LGBTQ Californians enjoy some of the broadest and anti-discrimination protections in the US, covering employment, credit, housing, accommodations etc. Sexual orientation is considered a protected class in California, which means that discrimination claims alleging LGBTQ bias are given added scrutiny. Some of the laws protecting LGBTQ Californians include:

• The Unruh Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination by businesses based on sexual orientation
• The California Fair Housing and Employment Act, which protects LGBTQ Californians from discrimination in housing, credit or employment situations
• California hate crime statutes, which clarify protections for LGBTQ residents against hate crimes
• Gay panic and trans panic defenses. California was the first state to bar so-called “gay panic” and “trans panic” legal defenses, which defendants in murder trials have used in cases where LGBTQ victims were killed.

Other California LGBTQ Rights Regarding Discrimination

In addition to formal legal protections, California now offers its residents gender neutral birth certificates and driver’s licenses, and has also mandated that all single occupancy bathrooms be gender neutral.

California also requires that health care workers meet certain cultural competency standards when dealing with LGBTQ patients.

Have You Been Discriminated Against Based on Your Sexual Orientation? If so, Call a Seasoned LGBTQ Discrimination Lawyer.

At Craig Charles Law, we are proud of our commitment to protecting the rights of our LGBTQ clients. Our office is based in the City of West Hollywood (Weho) and we are fortunate to live and work in the epicenter of gay freedom and diversity. We believe there is no place in a civilized society for discrimination based on LGBTQ identity. If you have been discriminated against based on your sexual orientation through housing, employment, adoption services, medical services or financial services, give the Law Office of Craig Charles a call to discuss your rights. All consultations are free and there is never a fee unless we win for you. Call us today at 424-343-0660.