Can I sue for pregnancy discrimination at work?
Pregnancy discrimination involves treating women unfavorably due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This includes firing, demotion, or passing over for promotion.
When People Ask This Question
Legal protection against discrimination due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
Common Examples:
- • Told not to return after maternity leave
- • Demoted after announcing pregnancy
- • Passed over for promotion due to pregnancy
- • Fired for pregnancy-related absences
- • Forced to take early maternity leave
What Lawyers Often Look At
In situations like yours, legal professionals typically consider these factors when evaluating potential options:
Whether adverse employment action was taken due to pregnancy
Whether similarly situated non-pregnant workers were treated differently
Whether employer followed pregnancy accommodation laws
Whether discrimination was overt or subtle
Documentation of performance before pregnancy announcement
Timing of discrimination relative to pregnancy
Important Note: This is general educational information. How these factors apply to your specific situation depends on your unique circumstances, location, and applicable laws.
Evidence That Can Help
Having documentation and evidence is often crucial. Consider gathering these types of information:
Performance reviews from before pregnancy announcement
Emails or comments about pregnancy affecting work
Documentation of accommodations given to other workers
Witness statements about discriminatory treatment
Timeline showing employment actions after pregnancy news
Documentation of pregnancy-related medical needs
Common Misconceptions
Employers can always cite business reasons for actions (pretext can be shown)
Only obvious discrimination counts (subtle discrimination also illegal)
Small employers are exempt from pregnancy laws (coverage varies by size)
Short-term pregnancies aren't protected (all pregnancies covered)
Reality Check: Legal situations are often more complex than they appear. Always seek professional legal advice rather than relying on common assumptions.
What You Can Do Next
Based on general information about similar situations, here are some steps to consider:
Document all pregnancy-related discrimination incidents
Request reasonable accommodations in writing
File complaint with EEOC within time limits
Gather evidence of preferential treatment for non-pregnant workers
Consult employment discrimination attorney
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my employer says I can't perform my job duties while pregnant?
Get Personalized Guidance
While this scenario provides general information, every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Related Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.