The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or EEOC, reported that in 2022, they received more than 2,200 pregnancy discrimination complaints. The EEOC received even more complaints in past years, with 3,174 in 2017 and 4,029 in 2010.  

According to a pregnancy disability lawyer in Los Angeles, California, firing or refusing to hire an employee due to a pregnancy-related disability is a form of discrimination that is prohibited by state and federal laws. Discrimination can also occur when an employer refuses to promote an employee based on her pregnancy-related disability or if the employee is treated differently in the employment terms and conditions based on her pregnancy.

As an expecting mother in the workplace, you have your rights. Protect your rights with the assistance of an experienced lawyer with expertise in handling pregnancy-related disability cases who can help you seek compensation for your damages. 

From understanding the laws protecting pregnant employees to knowing how to document the discrimination incident effectively, let's learn more about the strategies you can employ to address this injustice head-on and potentially turn the tide in your favor. 

Understanding Pregnancy Discrimination Laws

Understand how pregnancy discrimination laws protect you in the workplace. Pregnancy discrimination laws are in place to ensure that pregnant employees are treated fairly and are not subjected to negative actions due to their pregnancy. These laws prohibit discrimination based on pregnancy in all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, and job assignments. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees to ensure they can continue working safely throughout their pregnancy. 

Wrongful termination lawyer Jeffrey Fulton says wrongful termination occurs when an employer violates an employment contract or law when firing an employee. These terminations can happen because of harassment and discrimination, whether it is because of your race, color, nationality, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and maybe because of you're pregnancy. It is still illegal. It is important to know your rights under these laws and to take action if you believe you have been discriminated against. 

Contacting the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a legal professional who specializes in employment law can help you understand your options and the steps you can take to protect your rights in the workplace. You have the right to work in an environment free from discrimination, including discrimination based on pregnancy.

Documenting the Job Denial Incident

To properly document the job denial incident, gather all relevant correspondence and records related to the application process. This includes emails, letters, application forms, and any other communication exchanged between you and the employer. Make sure to keep a record of the job posting, your application materials, and any responses you receive during the hiring process. Save any notes you may have taken during interviews or phone conversations. 

It is important to document the timeline of events leading up to the job denial, noting any discussions or interactions that may have indicated discrimination based on your pregnancy status. Keep track of any witnesses who were present during these interactions, as their accounts could support your case.

Organize these documents in a secure file or folder, making sure they're easily accessible for future reference. Having a well-documented record of the job denial incident will be critical if you decide to take further action. 

Seeking Legal Guidance and Support

Consider consulting with a legal professional to discuss your options and receive guidance on how to proceed regarding the job denial due to pregnancy. A legal expert can provide valuable insights into the laws protecting pregnant individuals in the workplace and help you understand if your rights have been violated. They can assess the specifics of your case, advise you on the best course of action, and inform you about the legal remedies available to you. 

Legal guidance can empower you to make informed decisions about how to address the job denial and seek appropriate redress. By having a legal professional review your situation, you can gain clarity on the steps you can take to assert your rights and potentially challenge the discriminatory actions taken against you. Seeking legal support can be pivotal in dealing with the challenges of employment law and ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout this process. 

Filing a Complaint with the Relevant Authorities

If you have been denied a job due to pregnancy, you should promptly file a complaint with the relevant authorities to address the issue. Begin by gathering all relevant documentation, such as emails, letters, or any other communication related to the job denial. 

Contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the relevant state agency that handles discrimination claims. You can usually file a complaint online, by mail, or in person. Provide detailed information about the incident, including dates, names of individuals involved, and any witnesses.

The authorities will investigate your complaint and determine if there's a case of pregnancy discrimination. Be prepared to cooperate fully with the investigation and provide any additional information requested. Filing a complaint is an essential step in seeking justice and ensuring that your rights are protected. 

Keep in mind that there are strict time limits for filing a complaint, so it's important that you act promptly. 

Exploring Options for Legal Action

When considering legal action after being denied a job due to pregnancy, consult with an employment attorney to explore your options. An experienced attorney can assess the details of your case and advise you on the best course of action. They can help you understand your rights under the law and determine if there are grounds for a discrimination claim. 

If you decide to pursue legal action, your attorney may recommend filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a similar state agency. These agencies handle claims of discrimination in the workplace and can investigate your case. 

In addition to administrative remedies, your lawyer may suggest filing a lawsuit against the employer who denied you the job. This legal action can seek compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages.

Conclusion 

If you've been denied a job because you're pregnant, it's important to know your rights under pregnancy discrimination laws. Document the incident, seek legal guidance, and consider filing a complaint with the relevant authorities. You have options for legal action to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Act quickly to take steps in addressing the discrimination you have faced.