Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

Being the target of pregnancy discrimination at work can be a traumatic and difficult experience. Defending the legal rights of pregnant women and fighting for their equal treatment is the top priority for our Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyers at The Law Offices of Reisner & King LLP.

We offer compassionate and effective legal representation to assist you in navigating your pregnancy discrimination case and securing the justice you deserve based on our comprehensive knowledge of both California and federal employment laws.

Understanding Your Rights

Knowing what your rights are as an expecting mother is a great defense against acts of pregnancy discrimination. Both federal and state laws have a number of strong protections in place to ensure that you’re treated fairly at work:

Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDL):

• Offers up to four months of unpaid leave for pregnancy-related ailments.
• Employers must reinstate employees in the same or a similar job.
• Pregnancy, delivery, and other related medical issues are all covered.

California Family Rights Act (CFRA):

• Employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to bond with their new child.
• This protects against retaliation for taking leave.
• This applies to businesses with 50 or more employees.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):

• Guarantees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for serious illnesses, including pregnancy.
• Employers must continue to provide health benefits while on leave.
• Provides job security and reinstatement to the same or equal position.

Reasonable Accommodations:

• Modified work schedules and ergonomic modifications are some examples.
• Temporary reassignment to less difficult duties may be necessary.
• Employers must use an interactive procedure to assess appropriate accommodations.

Legal Process and What to Expect

If you believe you have been subjected to pregnancy discrimination, understanding the legal process is essential. Taking the right steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here is an overview of the process from initial consultation to potential court proceedings.

• Documenting Incidents:
  • Keep detailed records of discriminatory actions or comments.
  • Save any relevant emails, memos, or written communications.
  • Note the dates, times, and witnesses of each incident.
• Reporting Discrimination:
  • Report the discrimination to your human resources department.
  • Follow your company’s internal complaint procedures.
  • If the issue is not resolved, consider filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
• Filing a Legal Claim:
  • Consult with an experienced employment attorney to evaluate your case.
  • File a formal complaint with the EEOC or DFEH if necessary.
  • Your attorney will guide you through the process, including possible mediation or settlement negotiations, and represent you in court if needed.

The Impact of Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination can have serious effects on your personal and professional life. This unfortunate act can cause emotional distress, financial difficulty, and a hostile workplace atmosphere. Understanding these consequences will help you realize the significance of taking action and getting help.

Emotional and Psychological Effects:

• Discrimination can cause anxiety, despair, and low self-esteem.
• Dealing with unfair treatment can be stressful and influence your general well-being.
• Seeking help from a counselor or support group might be beneficial.

Financial Consequences:

• Lost salary and career chances might cause financial distress.
• Medical expenses due to pregnancy problems may rise.
• Legal action can help you recover damages and lost income.

Working Environment:

• A hostile work environment has the potential to reduce job satisfaction and performance.
• Returning to a prejudiced job can impede professional development.
• Legal remedies may include reinstatement into a safe and supportive work environment.

Resources for Expectant Mothers

Facing pregnancy discrimination can be challenging, but numerous resources are available to support you. Support groups, both local and online, offer emotional support and practical advice. Government agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) provide guidance on filing complaints and understanding your rights.

Additionally, non-profit organizations such as the National Partnership for Women & Families advocate for pregnant workers’ rights and provide legal assistance. These resources can help you navigate the difficulties of pregnancy discrimination and find the support you need.

As an expectant mother, have you suffered pregnancy discrimination at your job? If so, you have rights — and you may be able to obtain compensation.

We are the skilled employment lawyers at the Law Offices of Reisner & King LLP. We work hard to hold employers responsible when they violate the Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDL), the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Call us today at 818-981-0901 for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout the Los Angeles area and Southern California.

Your Rights Under Federal And California Law

Both the FMLA and CFRA require employers to provide parents with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave following the birth or adoption of a child. These laws also prohibit employers from discriminating against employees who seek to take leave for the purpose of caring for or bonding with a child.

In addition, an employer must offer a “comparable position” to an employee returning from pregnancy leave. The employer is not obligated to reinstate the employee into the exact position the employee held before leave.

Protecting The Rights Of Pregnant Employees Since 1999

For more than 15 years, Adam Reisner, Tessa King, experienced associates and excellent support staff have worked as a team to protect employee rights in cases throughout California.

We will listen to you, open ourselves to your ideas and use our many resources to your benefit throughout the legal process. Come to our Sherman Oaks law firm when your employer underestimates the effects of a pregnancy-related illness or refuses to grant family and medical leave for prenatal care or bonding after birth.

Are you disabled as a result of your pregnancy? Have you been harassed or discriminated against by a supervisor or co-worker since becoming pregnant? Would you welcome the kind of outcome that pays money damages and transitions you to a more harmonious work environment once your maternity leave has ended?

FAQs

Q: How Much Is the Pregnancy Discrimination Settlement in California?

A: The amount of a pregnancy discrimination settlement in California can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case, but settlements typically range from $20,000 to $200,000 or more. Factors influencing the settlement amount include the severity of the discrimination, lost wages, emotional distress, and legal fees. Each case is unique, and consulting with an attorney is crucial for an accurate assessment.

Q: How to Win a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuit?

A: To win a pregnancy discrimination lawsuit, gather strong evidence, including documentation of the discrimination, witness statements, and records of any complaints made to the employer. Demonstrating a clear link between discrimination and adverse employment actions and showing the employer’s violation of relevant laws can significantly strengthen your case.

Q: How Hard Is It to Prove Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: Proving pregnancy discrimination can be challenging, as it requires showing that an employer’s adverse action was directly related to the employee’s pregnancy. Key evidence includes discriminatory remarks, timing of adverse actions following pregnancy announcements, and inconsistent treatment compared to non-pregnant employees. Detailed documentation and witness testimony can help substantiate the claim.

Q: What Is the Statute of Limitations for Pregnancy Discrimination in California?

A: In California, the statute of limitations for filing a pregnancy discrimination claim is typically two years from the date of the discriminatory act. This timeframe applies to complaints filed with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). For federal claims under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the deadline is 300 days from the discriminatory act.

Contact a Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

If you believe you have been subjected to pregnancy discrimination, it is crucial to take action promptly. The Law Offices of Reisner & King LLP is here to support and advocate for your rights.

Our experienced Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer will provide the guidance and representation you need to address your concerns and seek justice. Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and securing fair treatment in the workplace.