Sacramento Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

Sacramento Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

Under both state and federal law, pregnant women in Sacramento have important rights. Employers are required to provide pregnant women with light duties as their pregnancy progresses. Any worker who faces pregnancy discrimination in California has the right to work with a Sacramento pregnancy discrimination lawyer who can take action to undo the harm of pregnancy discrimination.

Why Choose Clark Employment Law, APC?

Pregnancy discrimination is a serious form of workplace misconduct. Proving that certain acts violated state or federal law requires a careful and strategic approach based on evidence and witness testimony. For years, mothers in Sacramento have relied on the trusted legal services of Clark Employment Law, APC, to guide them through the discrimination claims process.

With unwavering legal representation from our firm, you may be entitled to financial compensation. If you were wrongfully terminated, you may be reinstated to your former position if you desire it. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may also be entitled to back pay, front pay, lost benefits, and attorney’s fees.

Common Examples of Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination can take many forms. Often, cases arise at the hiring stage. If a screener does not know that you are pregnant, your employer may not become aware of your pregnancy status until the first in-person interviews. Pregnancy status should not be a factor your employer considers when choosing whether to hire you. Unfortunately, some women notice a change in demeanor once a hiring team finds out about the pregnancy.

Current employees can also face all sorts of discrimination during pregnancy. They may notice that they are denied promotions or have their hours cut after their employer learns about their pregnancy. Some workplaces refuse reasonable accommodation to pregnant workers or force them to take unpaid leave even when they are still able to work.

Workers may face harassment, retaliation, and negative treatment after requesting maternity leave or workplace adjustments. In extreme cases, employees may be pressured to quit. If an employer denies benefits or fails to provide accommodations to pregnant women, they could be in violation of state and federal laws that prohibit such behavior.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

A successful pregnancy discrimination claim can provide criminal compensation and relief. One of the most important forms of compensation is for lost wages. Pregnancy discrimination often leads to wrongful terminations, denied promotions, and other serious setbacks.

Reinstatement is one remedy that can restore a worker both financially and professionally. Some women understandably do not wish to return to their previous place of work after being subjected to discrimination. In those cases, financial compensation can help them find the time and resources to begin work elsewhere.

In some cases, back pay and future earnings can be included in compensation packages. Workers may also have the right to seek compensation for lost benefits and retirement contributions if those benefits were unfairly denied.

Emotional distress damages recognize the mental and emotional toll of discrimination, including stress, anxiety, and humiliation. If an employer engages in severe or repeated misconduct, punitive damages may be available to penalize wrongful actions and deter future violations.

Why Legal Representation Is Key

Holding at-fault employers accountable for their misconduct often requires legal representation from an employment lawyer who understands state and federal protections for pregnant workers. Proving any claim also requires strong evidence and an effective legal strategy.

An employment law attorney can play a critical role in securing compensation for you by gathering evidence, handling negotiations, and filing formal complaints when needed. Understandably, many workers fear retaliation once they initiate a discrimination claim. Having an attorney in Sacramento can protect you from retaliation. Once a settlement is reached, your lawyer can explain the implications of accepting or not accepting a proposed settlement.

Pregnancy Discrimination FAQs

Q: What Compensation May Be Available in a Pregnancy Discrimination Case?

A: Employees who experience pregnancy discrimination may be entitled to back pay, lost wages, reinstatement, or compensation for emotional distress. If an employer’s actions caused financial hardship, such as loss of benefits or job opportunities, damages may be available. In some cases, punitive damages can be awarded if the employer’s behavior is especially harmful. Compensation varies depending on the specifics of the case.

Q: What Steps Can an Employee Take Against Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: Employees should document discriminatory incidents, report concerns to HR, and review workplace policies on pregnancy rights. If the issue is not resolved, they can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). Seeking legal guidance can help employees understand their rights and take the ideal course of action to protect their jobs and financial well-being.

Q: How Difficult Is It to Prove Pregnancy Discrimination?

A: Proving pregnancy discrimination can be challenging, as employers may deny wrongdoing or claim legitimate business reasons for their actions. However, clear evidence of unfair treatment, sudden job changes, or inconsistent company policies can strengthen a claim. Showing a pattern of mistreatment before or after disclosing a pregnancy helps demonstrate discriminatory intent. Legal support can improve the chances of success.

Q: What Evidence Can Help Support a Pregnancy Discrimination Claim?

A: Strong evidence includes emails, text messages, performance reviews, and witness statements showing unfair treatment. Medical records confirming pregnancy, job termination notices, or policy violations can also support a claim. If other employees have faced similar issues, their experiences may help establish a pattern of discrimination. Keeping detailed records can make it easier to prove the case.

Sacramento Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer

Pregnancy discrimination has no place in the workplace, yet many employees still face unfair treatment due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. These actions are not only unjust but also illegal under both state and federal laws. If you have experienced discrimination, you have the right to take legal action to protect yourself and your career.

If you have been denied opportunities, faced retaliation, or been treated unfairly due to pregnancy, Clark Employment Law, APC, can help. Contact our office today to schedule a no-cost initial consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.