Pregnancy discrimination is a serious issue that affects many women in the workforce, yet it often goes unnoticed or unaddressed. Discriminating against an employee because of her pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions is unlawful under both federal and California state laws. If you believe that you have been discriminated against because of your pregnancy, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal counsel. The Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyers at Crown Law Group, PC, are committed to helping you fight against discrimination and ensure that your workplace rights are protected.
Understanding Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly because she is pregnant, has given birth, or is experiencing a pregnancy-related medical condition. This type of discrimination can involve many different forms, including:
- Denial of employment opportunities – Being passed over for promotions, assignments, or other opportunities due to pregnancy.
- Unfair treatment during pregnancy – Being given a heavier workload or being treated differently because of pregnancy.
- Wrongful termination – Being fired or laid off due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
- Disadvantageous treatment after maternity leave – Facing retaliation or discrimination after returning from maternity or pregnancy-related leave.
Under both federal and state laws, such treatment is illegal. The Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination attorneys at Crown Law Group, PC, are here to help you understand your rights and take action to seek justice.
Legal Protections for Pregnant Employees
Several laws protect pregnant workers, ensuring that they are treated fairly in the workplace. These include:
- The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) – This federal law, an amendment to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Pregnant employees must be treated like other employees with similar abilities or limitations.
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) – Under FMLA, eligible employees are entitled to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for the birth of a child or to care for a newborn. This law also ensures that employees can return to their position or an equivalent one after their leave.
- The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) – California law offers even more protection, prohibiting discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. It also mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees, such as more frequent breaks or the ability to adjust their work duties.
- The California Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDL) – Under this law, California employees are entitled to take leave for up to four months if they cannot work due to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.
Signs of Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination can manifest in a variety of ways. Some common signs of discrimination may include:
- Denial of Reasonable Accommodations – If your employer refuses to provide accommodations, such as modified duties or additional breaks, despite your pregnancy-related needs, this may constitute discrimination.
- Unfair Treatment or Harassment – If you are subjected to unfair treatment, including being harassed or given excessive workloads due to pregnancy, it may be a violation of the law.
- Wrongful Termination or Demotion – Being fired or demoted after revealing your pregnancy or taking pregnancy-related leave could be a clear sign of pregnancy discrimination.
- Discriminatory Hiring Practices – If an employer refuses to hire you or provides discriminatory comments or reasons based on your pregnancy, it may violate your rights.
Statistics on Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination remains a prevalent issue in the workplace despite legal protections. Consider the following statistics:
- Approximately 1 in 4 pregnant women experience workplace discrimination related to their pregnancy or maternity leave.
- A report by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) indicates that pregnancy discrimination complaints have risen by over 30% in recent years.
- In California, a survey found that nearly 1 in 5 women reported experiencing some form of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace.
These statistics underscore the continued need for vigilance in protecting the rights of pregnant employees and holding employers accountable for unlawful actions.
How a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer Can Help You
If you believe you are the victim of pregnancy discrimination, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer. Our team at Crown Law Group, PC, can help by:
- Evaluating Your Case – We will listen to your story, review any evidence, and determine if you have a valid claim for pregnancy discrimination.
- Gathering Evidence – We will help you gather the necessary documentation to support your case, including emails, records of conversations with your employer, medical records, and other relevant materials.
- Negotiating on Your Behalf – We will work with your employer or their representatives to negotiate a fair settlement that compensates you for your losses and addresses any discriminatory actions.
- Filing a Lawsuit—If a settlement is not possible, we will help you pursue legal action by filing a claim with the appropriate state or federal agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), and representing you in court if necessary.
How to Take Action Against Pregnancy Discrimination
If you believe that you are experiencing pregnancy discrimination at your workplace, here are the steps you should take:
- Document Everything – Keep a detailed record of any instances of pregnancy discrimination. This may include emails, memos, or notes about conversations and events.
- Report the Discrimination – Notify your employer or human resources department about the issue. In some cases, this may help resolve the situation before it escalates.
- Seek Legal Advice – Contact a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination attorney to discuss your case and learn about your legal rights and options.
- File a Formal Complaint – If necessary, you can file a formal complaint with the EEOC, DFEH, or another relevant agency. This step is often required before filing a lawsuit.
Conclusion
Pregnancy discrimination is not only harmful to your career but is also unlawful under both federal and California state laws. If you have been treated unfairly due to your pregnancy or maternity leave, you have the right to seek justice and compensation. The Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination attorneys at Crown Law Group, PC, are ready to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Call 310-734-0504 to schedule a free consultation today. We are here to assist you in achieving a fair and just resolution to your case.
