Question By: Pregnancy is an exciting and challenging time for any woman, but unfortunately, it can also bring unexpected challenges, such as discrimination at work. While employers are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees, not all employers adhere to these rules. If you have been fired from your job because of your pregnancy, it can be a devastating experience. But what recourse do you have? In this blog post, we will explore your options if you are fired for being pregnant.
Know Your Rights
First and foremost, it's important to understand your rights as a pregnant employee. Under federal law, pregnant employees are protected by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), which prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This means that you cannot be fired simply because you are pregnant.
Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, including pregnancy-related disabilities. This means that if your pregnancy-related condition prevents you from performing your job duties, your employer may be required to provide accommodations such as modified work hours or a modified workload.
File a Complaint with the EEOC
If you believe that you have been fired because of your pregnancy, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a federal agency that enforces employment discrimination laws, including the PDA and ADA. You can file a complaint with the EEOC by contacting your local EEOC office or by submitting a complaint online.
The EEOC will investigate your complaint and determine whether there is enough evidence to support a claim of discrimination. If the EEOC finds that there is sufficient evidence, it may file a lawsuit on your behalf or issue a right-to-sue letter, which allows you to file a lawsuit on your own.
Consult an Attorney
If you have been fired for being pregnant, it's a good idea to consult an attorney who specializes in employment law. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in negotiations with your former employer or in court.
An attorney can also help you determine whether you have a case for pregnancy discrimination. To prove pregnancy discrimination, you must show that:
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You were pregnant at the time of the adverse employment action (such as being fired)
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You were qualified for the job
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You suffered an adverse employment action (such as being fired)
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Your pregnancy was a motivating factor in the adverse employment action
Unlawful discrimination for any reason is illegal, but getting fired for being pregnant is especially egregious. You may feel humiliated about losing your job. You also are probably worried about losing health insurance and other benefits at the worst time.
It is illegal in California and across the US to fire someone simply for being pregnant. If you think you have been discriminated against in this way, Law Office of Joseph Richards P.C. has skilled Orange County sex discrimination lawyers who may be able to assist you.
For More Details Visit https://hr.law/2023/02/28/what-recourse-do-i-have-if-fired-for-pregnancy/