Northridge Pregnancy Discrimination Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Pregnant Employees in California

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This means that employers cannot refuse to hire, fire, or otherwise discriminate against a woman because she is pregnant or has a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth. Employers must also treat pregnant employees the same as other employees who are similar in their ability or inability to work.

At K2 Employment Law, our pregnancy discrimination lawyers in Northridge are committed to helping employees who have been treated unfairly in the workplace. We understand the stress and anxiety that can come with being pregnant and facing discrimination at work. Our attorneys are here to provide the compassionate legal guidance you need and the aggressive representation you deserve.

If you believe you have been the victim of pregnancy discrimination, contact our firm at (800) 590-7674 to schedule a consultation with our Northridge pregnancy discrimination lawyers.

What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because she is pregnant, has a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth, or has a pregnancy-related medical condition. This type of discrimination can also occur when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because she has a history of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.

Under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), employers are prohibited from engaging in the following:

• Refusing to hire a pregnant job applicant
• Firing an employee because she is pregnant
• Demoting an employee because she is pregnant
• Refusing to promote an employee because she is pregnant
• Refusing to provide reasonable accommodations for a pregnant employee

What Is the Pregnancy Disability Leave?

Under the California Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL), employers are required to provide up to 4 months of leave to employees who are disabled by pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. This means that if you are unable to work due to a pregnancy-related condition, your employer must provide you with up to 4 months of leave.

What Is the California Family Rights Act?

The California Family Rights Act (CFRA) is a state law that requires employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to employees who are unable to work due to a serious health condition, the serious health condition of a family member, or the birth or adoption of a child. The CFRA applies to employers with 5 or more employees and is separate from the PDLL, PDLA, and FMLA.

What Proof Do I Need for a Pregnancy Discrimination Case?

To successfully pursue a pregnancy discrimination case, you must gather and present compelling evidence that demonstrates the discriminatory actions taken against you because of your pregnancy. The following types of proof are critical in building a strong case:

• Direct Evidence: Direct evidence includes explicit statements or actions by your employer that indicate discriminatory intent. This could be comments made by supervisors or managers about your pregnancy, written communications expressing bias, or direct admissions of discriminatory behavior. Such evidence can be powerful in proving your case.
• Circumstantial Evidence: Circumstantial evidence involves a series of events or actions that, when considered together, suggest a pattern of discrimination. This might include being passed over for promotions, demoted, or terminated shortly after announcing your pregnancy. Documentation of changes in your job duties or treatment compared to non-pregnant colleagues can also support your claim.
• Comparative Evidence: Comparative evidence shows how you were treated differently from non-pregnant employees in similar situations. This could involve comparing performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, or job assignments. If non-pregnant employees received more favorable treatment under similar circumstances, it strengthens your case.
• Witness Testimony: Witnesses who observed the discriminatory behavior or have knowledge of your employer’s policies and practices can provide valuable testimony. Colleagues, supervisors, or HR personnel who can attest to unfair treatment or biased remarks can significantly bolster your claim.
• Documentation: Keeping detailed records is essential. Save copies of emails, memos, performance reviews, and any other relevant documents that illustrate changes in your employment status or treatment after disclosing your pregnancy. Maintaining a detailed journal of incidents, conversations, and actions taken by your employer can also serve as critical evidence.
• Medical Records: Medical records confirming your pregnancy and any related health conditions can help establish the timeline and context of the discrimination. These records are crucial in showing that the adverse actions taken against you were linked to your pregnancy.

How Our Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyers Can Help You

Here’s how we can assist you:

• Case Evaluation: We offer a thorough case evaluation to help determine the strength of your claim. We will review the evidence, understand the specifics of your situation, and provide honest feedback on the potential success of your case.
• Legal Guidance: Understanding your rights and the legal processes involved in a pregnancy discrimination case is crucial. We will explain the laws, help you understand your options, and guide you through each step of the legal process. We ensure you are well-informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
• Evidence Gathering: Building a strong case requires substantial evidence. We will assist you in gathering and organizing all necessary documentation, identifying key witnesses, and compiling the critical evidence needed to support your claim. We will work diligently to ensure that no detail is overlooked.
• Negotiation and Settlement: Many pregnancy discrimination cases are resolved through negotiations and settlements. We are skilled negotiators who will advocate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for the discrimination you have faced. We strive to achieve the best possible outcome without the need for a lengthy court battle.
• Litigation Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. We will represent you with tenacity and professionalism, presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury.
• Emotional Support: Dealing with pregnancy discrimination can be emotionally draining. We are not only legal advocates but also provide compassionate support. We understand the personal impact of discrimination and are here to support you throughout the entire process.

Contact Our Northridge Discrimination Lawyers Today

If you've faced discrimination in the workplace because you're pregnant, our experienced Northridge discrimination attorneys are here to help. We'll help you understand what your rights are, what your next steps should be, and more.

Contact us online or by calling (800) 590-7674 today to schedule a consultation with our Northridge pregnancy discrimination attorneys!