
Yes, you can sue for pregnancy discrimination in Los Angeles. There are both federal and state laws that protect those who are pregnant from discrimination and harassment. To do so, it’s important to understand your rights and legal options.
If you’ve been discriminated against because of a pregnancy or recent childbirth, a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer at Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys can help.
Who Can Sue for Pregnancy Discrimination in Los Angeles?
Whether you are a current employee or a prospective one, you may be able to sue for pregnancy discrimination in Los Angeles.
To be eligible, you must be a new or expecting parent who has been harassed or discriminated against because of your pregnancy or childbirth (or related factors like breastfeeding). Full- and part-time employees as well as job candidates are eligible to sue for pregnancy discrimination.
A Los Angeles employment lawyer at Omega Law Group will listen to your story and explain your legal options.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination is when a pregnant person or recent parent is treated unfairly or poorly because of the pregnancy. Some examples include:
- A job offer is withdrawn when the employer discovers that the job candidate is pregnant.
- An employer refuses reasonable accommodation for an expectant parent.
- A nursing mother is not allowed breaks for expressing milk.
- An expectant parent is fired or denied a promotion because of their pregnancy.
- A pregnant employee faces daily bullying or harassing comments due to the pregnancy.
Under both the Federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act and California’s Fair Housing and Employment Act (FEHA), these situations may constitute grounds for suing an employer over pregnancy discrimination.
These situations are stressful, and you’re likely worried about the future of your career. You won’t be alone, though, as a pregnancy discrimination lawyer from Omega Law Group can help hold employers accountable.
What Compensation Can You Sue for in Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Cases?
The compensation available in Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination cases can include coverage for both financial losses as well as the more personal effects you’ve suffered. Compensation may include:
Financial Losses
You may be able to recover back pay and benefits if you were wrongfully terminated or front pay (future earnings) as well. In some cases, the court may order your employer to rehire you or to ensure accommodations are provided.
Non-Financial Losses
You may be able to recover compensation for the emotional distress of the experience. In some cases, where the employer clearly acted maliciously, you may be able to recover punitive damages as well.
A lawyer from Omega Law Group will fight for the fair compensation you deserve. It’s important to note that, in California, you generally have three years to file an administrative complaint in pregnancy discrimination cases.
How Do You Prove Pregnancy Discrimination?
Before you can sue for pregnancy discrimination in Los Angeles, you need to be able to prove that the discrimination occurred. Pregnancy discrimination is often demonstrated through a careful investigation and collection of evidence.
Your Omega Law Group legal team would handle this aspect of your case. We may gather helpful evidence like:
- A drop in performance reviews that you can tie to the date you shared pregnancy news.
- Communication from managers or employers that denies accommodation or leave requests, or that shows clear bias against you.
- Witness statements, such as from coworkers who witnessed harassment or unfair treatment.
- Proof that a reason given for a firing or demotion was not honest.
How Can a Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney Help With Your Case?
Having an attorney on your side will give you an advocate fighting for your best possible outcome of the case. It can also help you to understand what’s happening in your case. In addition to gathering evidence to strengthen your claim, your lawyer can:
- Filing all necessary paperwork.
- Handling all communication and negotiations with opposing parties.
- Representing your case in court when needed.
Affording an Employment Lawyer in Los Angeles
The lawyers at Omega Law Group offer a “no recovery, no fee” policy and free consultations. They are also available 24/7 to answer your questions and ensure that you feel supported throughout the legal process.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Pregnancy Discrimination?
If you believe you have been discriminated against because of a recent pregnancy or childbirth, you have legal options. To protect your legal rights, here are some helpful steps to take:
- Save copies of performance reviews, emails, and termination notices to your personal email or personal device rather than solely on work equipment and software.
- Screenshot any messages sent using communication software like Slack or Teams.
- Write notes on the timeline of events and try to remember any specific things said that are related to your pregnancy.
- Talk to your doctor about your accommodations that were requested or workplace stress, so that you have a medical record.
- Reach out to a pregnancy discrimination lawyer in Los Angeles.
Encountering pregnancy discrimination can be stressful, but remember that your employer is the one at fault. Take care of yourself, and seek counseling when needed.
Contact a Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney in Los Angeles Today
Can you sue for pregnancy discrimination in Los Angeles? Yes, you can sue if you have been wrongfully terminated, demoted, harassed, had a job offer withdrawn, or faced other unfair treatment. You don’t have to face the legal process on your own, though.
The legal team at Omega Law Group is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.