West Covina Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

After dedicating your time and energy to your workplace, you should feel safe and respected by coworkers and employers alike. This goes for individuals who become pregnant while employed. However, if your employer discriminates against you because of your pregnancy, it should not be tolerated, and you need to be aware of your rights. Whether you are starting a family in Walnut Valley or work near Cameron Park, a West Covina pregnancy discrimination lawyer can help.

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How GUZMÁN & TOKAR LLP Can Help

At GUZMÁN & TOKAR LLP, we are dedicated to championing the rights of pregnant employees throughout Los Angeles County. We believe in justice and fairness for every individual in the workplace, regardless of certain protected characteristics, including pregnancy. Our attorneys pride themselves on offering client-focused legal support and unwavering advocacy, even against some of the largest companies and corporations.

Defining Pregnancy Discrimination in West Covina

California has a fertility rate of 50.4%, meaning individuals are getting pregnant every day across the state. Many of these individuals will be able to continue working as normal for a long period of time, yet nearly one in four women state they have considered leaving their employment due to fear of pregnancy discrimination or a lack of reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy.

It is important to be aware of how pregnancy discrimination can manifest in a West Covina workplace. Common examples can include:

• Unlawful termination. If you have been fired or laid off simply because of your pregnancy status, this is considered an act of discrimination.
• Harassment. A hostile work environment can occur when cruel jokes or derogatory comments are made regarding an employee or coworker’s pregnancy.
• Hiring refusal. When an employer refuses to hire an individual who perfectly qualifies for the job simply due to pregnancy, this is seen as discriminatory behavior.
• Failure to accommodate. When an employer fails or denies a pregnant worker’s request for reasonable accommodations, this can count as an act of illegal discrimination.
• Promotion denial. This occurs when a qualified worker is passed over for a promotion simply due to their pregnancy status.

If you believe you have suffered pregnancy discrimination at your West Covina place of employment, it is essential that you reach out to the offices of GUZMÁN & TOKAR LLP as soon as possible. You deserve a team of lawyers with years of experience in employment rights and pregnancy discrimination. While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, we are dedicated to securing the most favorable outcome possible in your case.

Damages You May Be Entitled to Recover for Pregnancy Discrimination

If you become pregnant and face any kind of demotion, workplace retaliation, or harassment, you are entitled to seek monetary compensation for any financial or emotional damages you have sustained. These damages include:

• Back pay, which can include any base wages or salary, tips, commissions, benefits, or overtime you are owed
• Front pay, which can include any benefits or wages you missed out on because you were denied certain employment opportunities or were wrongfully terminated
• Non-economic damages, which can account for any emotional trauma, medical complications, or distress you have suffered as a result of your employer’s discriminatory acts
• Punitive damages, which are rarely awarded, but when they are, can add significant value to your claim and are used to punish your employer for any behavior that was intentionally or willfully violating your rights
• Reinstatement to your previous position or a position that is comparable in duties and wages to your previous job

FAQs

Q: Am I Protected Under FMLA in California?

A: In California, you may have additional rights and protections in terms of pregnancy discrimination under the Family and Medical Leave Act. This federal law grants workers the right to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a 12-month period to bond with a new child or if they are dealing with any kind of serious medical issue related to pregnancy or prenatal care. However, to qualify, you must work for a company of 50 or more employees. 

Q: What Should I Do if My Employer Discriminates Against Me Due to Pregnancy?

A: If you believe you have faced workplace discrimination due to your pregnancy status, you need to take certain steps to protect yourself. First, it is important to keep a written record of all instances of discrimination or harassment, including dates, times, and locations. You should also speak with an attorney who can help determine the right legal options available in your case.

Q: Can My Employer Fire Me for Taking Maternity Leave?

A: No, your employer cannot legally fire you for taking your due maternity leave. They also cannot demote or discipline you for pregnancy. Additionally, your employer must reinstate you to the same job or a similar job with comparable wages and benefits once you have returned from maternity leave. If they fail to do so, it could be considered a wrongful termination.

Q: What Reasonable Accommodations Am I Entitled to as a Pregnant Worker?

A: There are several reasonable accommodations that a pregnant worker should be entitled to, and if these accommodations are not provided by an employer, it could be seen as an act of discrimination. Reasonable accommodations for pregnancy include additional rest breaks, frequent bathroom breaks, modifications to job duties or schedules, or a stool or chair.

Hire a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has suffered discrimination at their workplace due to their pregnancy status, it is time to hire a pregnancy discrimination lawyer. At GUZMÁN & TOKAR LLP, we work for you, championing your case and uncovering every stone necessary to secure the full compensation and justice you deserve. Contact our offices today to learn more about our legal services and to schedule your initial consultation with our team.

With our legal team on your side, you are better suited to successfully resolve your case. Our team can help you explore your available legal options. Engage our team today.