TOURETTE SYNDROME MAY BE A MEDICAL DISABILITY
If you are a Bay Area employee with Tourette Syndrome, you should know that you may be considered medically disabled. However, not all medical issues are disabilities. In order for your Tourette Syndrome diagnosis to be considered a medical disability you must show that the syndrome resulted in physical limitations, that you can still perform the essential functions of your job, and that your employer has taken some type of adverse action on the basis of your disability.
Many people are aware that Tourette Syndrome may cause people to shout obscene and inappropriate words and phrases in public. However, there are many milder versions of Tourette Syndrome that have more subtle effects on the individual. Tourette Syndrome is a brain disorder that often develops early in a person’s life. The syndrome causes physical and vocal tics. Tics are involuntary, sudden, repetitive movements involving muscle groups. These tics can often be controlled with therapy and/or medication.
If you are a Northern California resident and your case of Tourette Syndrome fits the definition of a medical disability, you should know that your employer may not discriminate against you based your condition. Employer discrimination often takes the form of your employer not allowing you to take time off work for your appointments, not allowing you to take a reasonable amount of time off work, or not allowing you to take time out of work for therapy sessions. If you believe you are a victim of medical discrimination, call Greenberg & Rudman, LLP. You can reach us at (1-800-ALAWPRO or 1-800-252-9776) for a free consultation, or visit us online at www.discriminationattorney.com. We are here to help.
