Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a pregnant employee unfairly due to their pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This discrimination is illegal under federal and state laws. If you suspect pregnancy discrimination, knowing how to protect your rights and seek justice is crucial. Contact our experienced Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination attorneys at (310) 499-0140 today.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Pregnancy Discrimination
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of any incidents of discrimination, including dates, times, and specifics of conversations or actions taken by your employer. Save copies of emails, performance reviews, memos, and any correspondence related to your pregnancy or job performance.
Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with laws that protect pregnant employees, such as the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), and Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL). Understand your rights to reasonable accommodations and job-protected leave.
Communicate with Your Employer
If you feel safe doing so, bring up your concerns with your employer or human resources department. Sometimes discrimination arises from ignorance rather than intentional bias, and clear communication can address the issue.
Request Accommodations
If you need adjustments to your duties, hours, or workspace due to pregnancy, submit a formal request for reasonable accommodations. Employers are required to accommodate pregnant employees as they would any other employee with a temporary medical condition.
Seek Legal Advice
Consult a Los Angeles employment attorney to evaluate your case, especially if you believe your rights have been violated or you have been unfairly terminated.
File a Complaint
If discrimination persists or worsens, you can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These agencies investigate claims of workplace discrimination and may mediate or take legal action against the employer.
Signs of Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination can take many forms, some subtle and others more overt. Common examples include:
- Being denied promotions raises, or opportunities because of your pregnancy.
- Sudden negative performance reviews or unwarranted criticism after announcing your pregnancy.
- Pressure to take leave earlier than planned or to resign.
- Refusal to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related medical needs.
- Demotion, termination, or reduction in hours after sharing news of your pregnancy.
If you notice these behaviors, you may be facing pregnancy discrimination.
How a Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer Can Help You
If you suspect pregnancy discrimination, hiring an experienced Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer can make a significant difference. Here is how a lawyer can assist:
Evaluate Your Case
A discrimination attorney will review your evidence and assess whether your employer’s actions violated state or federal laws.
Communicate with Your Employer
Your lawyer can act as a mediator, addressing the issue with your employer and attempting to resolve the matter without litigation.
File Complaints or Lawsuits
Attorneys can guide you through filing complaints with the CRD or EEOC, ensuring all documentation and deadlines are handled correctly. If necessary, they can also file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Negotiate Settlements
Many discrimination cases are resolved outside of court. An experienced attorney can negotiate a settlement that compensates you for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
Advocate for Your Rights
If your case proceeds to court, your attorney will represent you, building a compelling argument to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Our Pregnancy Discrimination Attorneys in Los Angeles Today
If you suspect pregnancy discrimination, acting quickly to document incidents and assert your rights is critical. Call (310) 499-0140 or message us online to arrange a free consultation.