Pregnancy Discrimination: When to Speak to an Attorney
Pregnancy discrimination is a form of sex discrimination that occurs when an employer treats a pregnant worker or job applicant less favorably than other employees or applicants who are not pregnant. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) is a federal law that prohibits this type of discrimination, as does Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII). Hux Law Firm is an Ohio employment law firm representing clients in pregnancy discrimination cases — including cases where a pregnant employee is fired or demoted, an employer refuses to hire a pregnant employee, or a pregnant employee is forced to take leave — and has helped numerous clients determine if their rights have been violated via pregnancy discrimination.
If you, or any pregnant women have experienced pregnancy discrimination in the workplace, you may be wondering when you should speak with an employment attorney. Below, the team at Hux Law Firm outlines circumstances where speaking to a pregnancy discrimination lawyer should be at the top of your to-do list.
When Your Pregnancy Has Cost You a Job
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act states that employees cannot refuse to hire an individual based on their pregnancy, pregnancy-related issues, or personal biases. Under the PDA, not being selected for a position you were qualified for can be considered evidence of pregnancy discrimination, and be grounds for a pregnancy discrimination lawsuit. If you find yourself in this position, reach out to Hux Law Firm immediately to determine if you were subjected to pregnancy discrimination.
When an Employer Denies You Leave
Pregnancy is a medical condition that requires medical treatment, and the PDA mandates that employers must treat pregnancy and maternity leave as they would any other type of medical leave. Employers who place restrictions on some employees and not for others in the case of medical leave — regardless of intent — are engaging in workplace discrimination. These restrictions may include insisting that pregnant employees take leave at a designated time or for a select period of time, and employers must allow pregnant employees to continue working as long as they are able.
When Your Employee Health Insurance is Revoked
Another instance where pregnant employees commonly face discrimination is when health insurance benefits are unlawfully revoked. Employees with health insurance through their employer must be able to apply their health benefits to pregnancy-related medical costs, and employers must reimburse employees for medical expenses in the same way — regardless of whether medical costs were for pregnancy or any other medical condition. In some cases, employers will impose larger deductibles for pregnancy-related expenses. This practice is still discriminatory, and if your employee health benefits have been negatively impacted by your pregnancy you should consult an attorney.
When in Doubt: Call on Hux Law Firm
Despite being prohibited by several federal and state laws, including Title VII and the PDA, many pregnant workers still face pregnancy discrimination. And there are countless situations where an attorney may be required to determine whether or not your rights have been violated. Hux Law Firm is an advocate for employees who have faced unfair and unlawful treatment, and can help you find the answers and legal advice you’re looking for in your pregnancy discrimination case. Contact our office today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward the outcome you deserve.
