PREGNANCY DISCRIMINATION

When an employer refuses to accommodate a pregnant employee or terminates their employment, an otherwise joyful time can become extremely stressful. Our Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer has represented numerous employees in pregnancy discrimination lawsuits. We know the pregnancy laws well and can provide the legal support you need during this important time.

Pregnancy Discrimination

In California, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”) makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate against workers because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. This means employers cannot fire an employee for pregnancy or maternity leave. It is also illegal for employers to fire or refuse to hire an employee because they are pregnant or have had an abortion. Similarly, employers cannot demote an employee for requesting accommodations for pregnancy. Workers who believe they have been discriminated against because of their pregnancy should contact a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer.

Pregnancy Disability and Baby Bonding Leave

The Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (“PDLL”), the Family Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”), and the California Family Rights Act (“CFRA”) govern pregnancy leave in California. Under the PDLL, an employer must provide an employee disabled by pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition up to four months of job-protected leave. Notably, the courts interpret the four months of leave as a floor, not a ceiling. Thus, under some circumstances, an employer must grant an employee leave beyond the four months provided by the PDLL. Specifically, an employee who continues to be disabled by pregnancy may be entitled to an extended leave of absence.

Furthermore, the CFRA gives qualified employees an additional 12 weeks of leave to bond with a child. CFRA covers employers who directly employ five or more persons. To be eligible for CFRA leave, an employee must have been employed by the employer: (1) for at least 12 months as of the date leave commences; and (2) for at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12-month period immediately proceeding the leave.

Los Angeles Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

If your employer has discriminated against you because of your pregnancy or denied you pregnancy disability leave, our pregnancy lawyer can help. Contact our office today, and our Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer will assess your situation and discuss the appropriate legal remedies.