Pregnancy should be one of the most exciting times in a person’s life not one filled with fear of losing your job or being treated unfairly. Unfortunately, pregnancy discrimination in the workplace remains far too common across California. At the Law Offices of Devon Roepcke, our mission is to protect the rights of employees who face discrimination, retaliation, or wrongful termination due to pregnancy or maternity leave.
If you’ve been demoted, denied accommodations, or treated unfairly after announcing your pregnancy, you may have a valid legal claim. Knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting your job and your future.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This can include:
- Being fired or demoted after announcing a pregnancy
- Denied maternity leave or accommodations such as additional breaks or flexible scheduling
- Excluded from promotions or meetings due to pregnancy
- Harassed or retaliated against for requesting time off for prenatal care or recovery
Federal and state laws including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) strictly prohibit this behavior.
If you’ve experienced these types of treatment at work, a San Diego pregnancy discrimination attorney can help you take action and hold your employer accountable.
Your Rights Under California and Federal Law
California provides strong legal protections for pregnant employees, ensuring equal treatment and fair opportunities. Some of these protections include:
- Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL): Up to four months of job-protected leave due to pregnancy or childbirth-related conditions.
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Up to 12 weeks of additional job-protected leave for bonding with a newborn.
- Reasonable Accommodations: Employers must make accommodations for pregnancy-related medical needs unless it causes undue hardship.
- Federal Protections: The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) guarantee your right to equal treatment and leave.
If your employer fails to follow these laws, you may be eligible for compensation through a pregnancy discrimination claim.
Signs You May Be Experiencing Pregnancy Discrimination
Recognizing discrimination isn’t always straightforward. Common warning signs include:
- A sudden change in your work assignments after disclosing your pregnancy
- Denied promotions or raises you’ve earned
- Negative remarks about your ability to “keep up” after becoming pregnant
- Exclusion from meetings, communications, or company opportunities
- Retaliation for taking maternity or family leave
If any of these sound familiar, don’t ignore the signs. Contact a pregnancy discrimination lawyer in San Diego today to understand your rights and explore your options.
What To Do If You’re Facing Pregnancy Discrimination
- Document Everything: Keep written records of emails, messages, and any discriminatory behavior.
- Report the Issue: File a written complaint with your HR department or supervisor.
- Contact a Lawyer: Speak with an experienced employment law attorney in San Diego to evaluate your case.
- File a Complaint: Your lawyer can help you submit a claim with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or EEOC.
- Protect Your Future: Legal action can help you recover lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
At The Law Offices of Devon Roepcke, our attorneys guide you through every step of this process ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Devon Roepcke?
Our firm is dedicated to representing employees across San Diego who have been treated unfairly at work. With extensive experience in employment law, we have successfully represented clients in pregnancy discrimination, wrongful termination, racial discrimination, and retaliation cases.
We know how emotionally draining it can be to face workplace injustice especially during pregnancy. That’s why we provide compassionate, results-driven legal representation. When you hire The Law Offices of Devon Roepcke, you’re not just getting an attorney; you’re gaining an advocate who stands beside you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Discrimination
1. Can my employer fire me for being pregnant?
No. Firing or demoting an employee because of pregnancy or maternity leave is illegal under both federal and California law.
2. What if I need special accommodations at work?
You’re entitled to reasonable accommodations such as lighter duties or modified schedules. If your employer refuses, they may be violating the law.
3. How long do I have to file a pregnancy discrimination claim in California?
You generally have one year from the date of the violation to file a complaint with the CRD, but it’s best to act quickly.
4. What kind of compensation can I recover?
You may recover lost wages, emotional distress, reinstatement, and attorney’s fees.
5. Can I sue even if I still work for my employer?
Yes. You can file a discrimination claim while still employed. It’s illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for asserting your rights.
Take Action Today: Protect Your Job and Your Future
You don’t have to face workplace discrimination alone. The Law Offices of Devon Roepcke in San Diego, CA, is here to help you fight back against pregnancy discrimination and regain your peace of mind.
Let us help you protect your job, your family, and your future.
Call 619-940-5357 or Contact Us today for a confidential consultation. Our attorneys are ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
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