Pregnancy discrimination remains a pervasive issue in workplaces across California. Despite robust state and federal protections, many employees face unfair treatment, demotion, or even termination due to pregnancy or related medical conditions. For those affected, consulting the Los Angeles employment law attorney at the Leichter Law Firm, APC, Aryeh Leichter, is critical to understanding and asserting their rights.
Understanding Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfavorably due to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.
This can manifest in several ways, including:
- Denial of promotions or opportunities due to pregnancy.
- Refusal to provide reasonable accommodations recommended by a healthcare provider.
- Retaliation for requesting pregnancy leave or accommodations.
- Termination or forced resignation after announcing a pregnancy.
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) explicitly prohibit such actions. California’s Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) and California Family Rights Act (CFRA) offer further protections, ensuring job security during and after pregnancy-related leave.
Legal Protections for Pregnant Employees in California
California’s progressive employment laws offer significant safeguards for pregnant employees, including:
- Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL): Employees can take up to four months of leave for pregnancy-related disabilities. This leave is job-protected and applies regardless of the company’s size.
- Reasonable Accommodations: Employers must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified duties or additional breaks, to pregnant employees unless doing so creates undue hardship.
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of leave to bond with a newborn or care for a family member, which can be taken in addition to PDL.
- Protection Against Retaliation: Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under these laws.
The Role of a California Employment Attorney
While these legal protections are robust, enforcing them often requires legal expertise. Consulting an employment attorney can make a significant difference in effectively addressing pregnancy discrimination.
- Understanding Your Rights: An attorney can clarify the protections available under California and federal laws, ensuring you know your entitlements.
- Gathering Evidence: Proving pregnancy discrimination requires substantial documentation, such as emails, performance reviews, and witness statements. An attorney can help collect and organize this evidence.
- Filing Complaints: An attorney can assist in filing complaints with agencies like the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to seek resolution.
- Negotiating Settlements: If you face job loss or financial harm, an attorney can negotiate compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
- Pursuing Litigation: In cases where settlements are impossible, an experienced attorney can represent you in court to hold the employer accountable.
No one should have to choose between their career and starting or growing their family. If you suspect pregnancy discrimination in your workplace, the Leichter Law Firm is here to advocate for your rights. The experienced employment attorney in Los Angeles County has a proven track record of helping employees fight against unlawful treatment.
Contact Our Attorney at Leichter Law Firm, APC, Today
Contact the Leichter Law Firm, APC, today for a consultation to help you navigate this challenging time confidently. You have rights, and Aryeh Leichter is here to ensure they are protected.