Greenberg Traurig LLP (03/14/12) Jay P. Lechner
Although it is not necessarily illegal for employers to ask job candidates interview questions touching upon race, sex, religion, marital status, and age, experts say they should avoid questions relating to protected class status or private matters not related to the job to prevent claims of discrimination. However, federal law prohibits employers from asking certain questions. For instance, they cannot ask about the existence, nature, or severity of a disability; family medical history or other genetic information; or former union membership or union preference.