Pregnancy is an emotional time, and being discriminated against in your workplace because you are pregnant is unacceptable. Unfortunately, many women face this type of discrimination in the workplace almost every day. Not only is this type of conduct unfair, but it is also illegal.
There are both federal and California-specific laws in place to help protect employees against pregnancy discrimination. If you have been the victim of this type of discrimination, you need our Garden Grove discrimination attorneys who can help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact Gutierrez Law Firm today by calling (213) 460-8380 to let us get started helping you.
Why Choose Gutierrez Law Firm?
If you have been the victim of pregnancy discrimination, you may feel helpless and alone. Many victims feel as though they have no power against their employer since their employment status and financial future may be on the line. The fact is that you do not have to put up with this type of behavior.
The founding attorney at Gutierrez Law Firm has over 16 years of experience and has helped hundreds of clients facing these types of issues in the workplace. Our caring team will give you the personal attention and service that you deserve, and we will work with you to put together a winning strategy for your case. Schedule a free consultation today to let us go to work for you.
The Basics Of Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employee is treated differently or unfairly because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth. This type of discrimination can occur at any phase of the employment process, including:
- Interviewing
- Hiring
- Promotions
- Pay raises
- Wrongfully terminating
- Layoffs
For instance, refusing to hire someone because they are pregnant is a classic example of pregnancy discrimination. Additionally, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act provides some additional protections for pregnant employees. Among other things, this law makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate against you for requesting your legally protected leave associated with pregnancy.
If you have faced any form of pregnancy discrimination, contact our Garden Grove employment attorneys to discuss your legal options today.
Examples Of Pregnancy Discrimination
Pregnancy discrimination can show up in ways that are obvious or extremely subtle. You might be denied a promotion after telling your boss you are expecting, or you could be written up for things that were never a problem before your pregnancy announcement.
Some clients have come to us after being fired shortly after requesting pregnancy-related leave. Others noticed their hours were cut, their workload shifted, or they were pushed out of meetings and projects they previously led. Even being pressured not to take legally protected leave can be a form of discrimination.
If your employer tries to talk you out of using your time off or makes negative comments about your absence, that behavior may be illegal. Small changes in how you are treated can add up quickly. If your work environment changed after you became pregnant, those shifts matter. You do not have to wait for something major to happen to speak up. We are here to help you figure out if what you are experiencing is more than unfair treatment.
How To Document Pregnancy Discrimination
If you think you are being treated unfairly at work because of your pregnancy, documentation can make a big difference. You do not need to get everything perfect or remember every detail, but even basic notes can help support your claim. There are a few simple ways to start building a timeline that shows how you were treated and when the changes began.
Recording Workplace Incidents In Real Time
Keeping a journal or log with dates, times, and what happened can help create a strong foundation for your case. Emails, screenshots, and calendar invites can back up your version of events and show patterns that may not be obvious at first. Saving this information while things are still fresh can make it easier to explain what happened later.
Gathering Witness Information And Written Communication
If coworkers saw or heard something important, write down their names and what they said. You can also keep texts, memos, or meeting notes that show how your requests or performance were handled before and after announcing your pregnancy. These records can help show changes in tone, treatment, or expectations that may not be obvious to someone outside your workplace.
How To File A Pregnancy Discrimination Claim in Garden Grove
Filing a pregnancy discrimination claim typically involves filing a claim with the EEOC or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. You have a limited amount of time to file a claim with these organizations, so it is important to seek the help of our experienced Garden Grove pregnancy discrimination attorneys to ensure you do not miss the deadline.
Before filing a lawsuit, you will need a “Right to Sue” letter from one of the agencies mentioned above. You will need evidence to prove your claim, so keep detailed records and notes of any instances of discrimination. Additionally, keep contact information of any potential witnesses. The more evidence you have to prove your claim, the more likely you are to be successful.
What Types Of Damages Can I Recover From A Pregnancy Discrimination Case?
When you take legal action for pregnancy discrimination, you are not just asking to be paid back for lost wages. Depending on the situation, your claim may include several different types of compensation. These fall into two main categories that work together to help you recover financially and emotionally.
Financial Compensation For Economic Losses
If you lost your job, missed a raise, or were passed over for a promotion, you may be able to recover the income you lost. This can also include the value of missed benefits like healthcare coverage, paid time off, or retirement contributions. If your future earnings were affected, you may also be entitled to compensation for what you are expected to lose down the line.
Emotional And Legal Remedies
Many clients also qualify for compensation related to emotional distress. Discrimination can take a toll on your mental health and self-worth, especially when it affects your ability to work and support your family. In some cases, courts may also order your employer to pay your legal fees, change workplace policies, or even offer reinstatement to a prior position.
Contact A Garden Grove Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer Now
If you have been the victim of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Gutierrez Law Firm today to let us learn more about you and your situation. Our experienced pregnancy discrimination attorneys in Garden Grove will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and get you the compensation you are legally owed. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.