Pregnancy should be a time of joy and preparation — not fear of losing your job or being treated unfairly. Unfortunately, many employees still face pregnancy discrimination in the workplace, including demotions, loss of hours, or even termination after disclosing a pregnancy.

At Huprich Law, we fight for the rights of employees who have been discriminated against because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. You have strong legal protections, and we are here to enforce them.

What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a worker unfairly because they are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are dealing with a pregnancy-related condition.

Common examples include:

• Refusing to hire or promote someone who is pregnant.

• Demoting or firing an employee after learning of their pregnancy.

• Forcing pregnant employees onto unpaid leave when they can still work.

• Denying accommodations such as more frequent breaks or light duty.

• Cutting hours, pay, or benefits after a pregnancy disclosure.

Even subtle acts — like passing over a pregnant employee for important projects — may amount to unlawful discrimination.

Laws Protecting Pregnant Employees

California and federal law provide robust protections for workers during and after pregnancy:

• Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) – An amendment to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.

• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) – Provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees.

• California Family Rights Act (CFRA) – Offers similar leave protections at the state level.

• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) – Prohibits discrimination and requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy.

• Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) – Grants eligible California employees up to four months of protected leave for pregnancy-related disabilities.

Together, these laws make it clear: pregnancy should never cost you your career.

Reasonable Accommodations for Pregnancy

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to employees affected by pregnancy or childbirth. These can include:

• More frequent breaks.

• Seating for employees who usually stand.

• Modified duties or light duty assignments.

• Temporary transfers away from hazardous tasks.

• Schedule adjustments for medical appointments.

If an employer refuses accommodations or punishes you for requesting them, that may be unlawful.

Harassment and Hostile Work Environment

Pregnancy discrimination isn’t limited to hiring or leave policies. Harassment is also prohibited.

Examples include:

• Derogatory comments about pregnancy or parenthood.

• Negative remarks about maternity leave.

• Unwanted questions about family planning.

• Ostracizing pregnant employees from workplace opportunities.

When such conduct is severe or pervasive, it creates a hostile work environment and violates the law.

Retaliation Is Illegal

It is unlawful for employers to retaliate against employees who:

• Request pregnancy accommodations.

• Take pregnancy or parental leave.

• File complaints about discrimination.

Retaliation can take the form of demotion, reduced hours, poor reviews, or termination. If you’ve been punished for asserting your rights, you may have a strong case.

What To Do If You Face Pregnancy Discrimination

If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly due to pregnancy:

1. Keep records – Document incidents, requests, and employer responses.

2. Submit accommodation requests in writing – This creates a clear paper trail.

3. Report internally – Notify HR or a supervisor of the issue.

4. File with the EEOC or California Civil Rights Department (CRD) if necessary.

5. Consult with a pregnancy discrimination lawyer – Legal guidance is key to protecting your rights.

Why Hire a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer?

Pregnancy discrimination cases often involve overlapping federal and state laws. A skilled attorney can:

• Analyze which laws apply to your situation.

• Prove that accommodations were reasonable and should have been granted.

• Represent you in negotiations with your employer.

• Seek compensation for lost income and emotional distress.

At Huprich Law, we help employees assert their rights so pregnancy does not become a career setback.

Pregnancy Discrimination Across Southern California

Our firm proudly represents workers in Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire who have been victims of pregnancy discrimination.

Los Angeles & San Gabriel Valley

We represent employees in Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, Highland Park, Montebello, San Marino, Alhambra, Rosemead, Monterey Park, and El Monte.

Foothill & Valley Communities

Our clients also include workers in Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, Burbank, and Tujunga.

Inland Empire & San Gabriel Valley East

We fight for employees in Ontario, Chino, Claremont, La Verne, Montclair, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, San Dimas, Upland, Charter Oak, Covina, Fontana, Glendora, Monrovia, Baldwin Park, and Azusa.

Wherever you live, pregnancy discrimination is unlawful, and we are here to help.

Compensation in Pregnancy Discrimination Cases

Employees who suffer pregnancy discrimination may be entitled to:

• Back pay and lost wages.

• Front pay if reinstatement isn’t possible.

• Compensation for emotional distress.

• Punitive damages for willful employer misconduct.

• Attorney’s fees and legal costs.

Protect Your Rights During Pregnancy

Pregnancy should never put your livelihood at risk. If you have been discriminated against at work because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions, the law is on your side.

At Huprich Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of pregnant employees across Southern California.

👉 Contact us today for a confidential consultation.