Orange County Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

Orange County Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

If you are pregnant and feel you’ve been discriminated against at work, you need the guidance of an experienced Orange County pregnancy discrimination lawyer. Employment laws protect individuals from being discriminated against due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. These protections are essential, but unfortunately, some employers still violate the law.

If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of pregnancy, the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams is ready to guide you through the legal process so you can get back to enjoying your family.

Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably by an employer because of pregnancy or plans to become pregnant. This can manifest in various ways, such as demotion, refusal to hire, denying promotions, or unjust termination.

Under federal and state laws, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against individuals on the basis of pregnancy. We can evaluate your case and help you pursue legal remedies if your rights have been violated.

Legal Protections Against Pregnancy Discrimination

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) offer significant protections for pregnant employees. These laws require that pregnant employees be treated the same as other employees with temporary disabilities. If you have been discriminated against because of pregnancy, we can help you navigate these laws and protect your rights.

In addition to the PDA and CFRA, pregnant employees are entitled to accommodations, such as modified work duties or a reasonable leave of absence. Employers who fail to provide these accommodations or discriminate against pregnant workers may be in violation of the law.

Common Forms of Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination in Orange County, California, can take on many forms in different areas of employment. Some examples include:

• Failure to hire. Employers may refuse to hire a pregnant job applicant.
• Demotion or pay cuts. Pregnant employees may face demotion, reduced pay, or loss of responsibilities.
• Unjust termination. Employers may illegally terminate a pregnant employee, citing reasons unrelated to their job performance.
• Denial of benefits or leave. Pregnant employees may be denied leave or reasonable accommodations related to their condition.
• Harassment and sexual harassment. Pregnant employees can be harassed and sexually harassed.

If you’ve experienced any of these issues, the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams can assist you in determining whether your rights have been violated and help you file a claim.

Pursuing a Pregnancy Discrimination Case

Filing a pregnancy discrimination case requires detailed documentation of the discriminatory actions you’ve faced. The Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams can gather evidence such as performance evaluations, emails, and witness statements to strengthen your case. The goal is to demonstrate that you were discriminated against because of your pregnancy rather than for any legitimate reason.

In many cases, resolving pregnancy discrimination claims can lead to settlements that compensate you for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Our attorneys can help you understand what compensation may be available to you and how to pursue the most favorable outcome.

Filing a Claim With the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Before taking your case to court, you may need to file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Rights Department (CRD). These agencies investigate discrimination claims and attempt to resolve them through mediation or other means.

Our lawyers can assist with the filing process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.

Compensation for Pregnancy Discrimination

If you’ve been discriminated against due to your pregnancy, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Back pay. Compensation for wages lost due to demotion, termination, or reduced hours.
• Emotional distress. Damages for mental suffering caused by the discrimination.
• Punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the employer for particularly egregious behavior.
• Reinstatement. In some cases, employees may be reinstated to their previous position with full benefits.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: The average settlement for pregnancy discrimination cases varies significantly based on the specifics of the case. Factors such as the severity of the discrimination, the length of time the discrimination occurred, and the emotional and financial impact on the employee, can all influence the settlement amount. We can review your case and provide a better idea of what you can expect based on previous cases with similar circumstances.

Q: How Do You Win a Pregnancy Discrimination Claim?

A: Winning a pregnancy discrimination claim requires proving that your employer discriminated against you due to your pregnancy. This involves gathering solid evidence, such as documents, witness testimony, and performance records, that demonstrate discriminatory behavior. We can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with your employer, and represent you in court if necessary.

Q: How Hard Is It to Prove Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: Proving pregnancy discrimination can be challenging, as employers often try to justify their actions with reasons unrelated to pregnancy. With the right legal representation and sufficient evidence, it is possible to prove that your employer’s actions were based on discriminatory reasons. This may include documentation of discriminatory comments, changes in your job responsibilities, or other actions taken against you after disclosing your pregnancy.

Q: What Is an Example of Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: An example of pregnancy discrimination could involve an employer refusing to promote a qualified employee solely because she is pregnant. The employer might argue that the pregnancy affects her performance or availability, even though the employee has demonstrated her ability to perform the job duties. Another example is an employer terminating an employee after she requests maternity leave or accommodations related to her pregnancy. These actions are illegal and could serve as the basis for a discrimination case.

Seeking Legal Help From a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

If you suspect you’ve been discriminated against due to your pregnancy, it’s crucial to speak with an Orange County pregnancy discrimination attorney as soon as possible. Pregnancy discrimination cases are time-sensitive, and waiting too long can affect your ability to file a claim.

The Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams can provide you with guidance on the steps to take, help you gather evidence, and pursue compensation for your losses. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and allow us to protect your rights.