There’s nothing quite like the feeling of getting fired. Whether it was a long time coming or you were completely blindsided, the experience is always jarring. However, if you get fired due to workplace pregnancy discrimination, things can feel even more daunting. You may be wondering what your next steps should be and where to go for help.
If you get fired because of your pregnancy, you may feel like you are all alone. You are not. There are laws to protect pregnant workers and help them get through difficult times.
This blog post will outline your rights and what to do if you find yourself in this situation. Read on for more information.
Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978
Some of the pregnant employee’s rights were first outlined in the Civil Rights Act, but then were expanded later. The Pregnancy Discrimination act of 1978 states that it is illegal to fire pregnant employees or those with pregnancy-related medical conditions.
The law applies to both public and private employers, meaning that you are safe no matter what company you work for or how long you’ve worked there. If you get fired because of your pregnancy, you can take legal action against your employer and make them face pregnancy discrimination charges.
Pregnancy discrimination can take many different forms. It may be that you were fired because your employer felt that you would be unable to do your job due to your pregnancy-related conditions. Or maybe you were passed over for a promotion or assignment because you planned on taking maternity leave.
It could also be that you got fired because you took pregnancy or maternity leave or requested a change in your work schedule due to your pregnancy, childbirth, or related responsibilities. No matter the reason, if you get fired or discriminated against because of your pregnancy, you have the right to take legal action.
What Are My Next Steps?
If your employer fires you because of your pregnancy, take the following steps:
1. Consult with an Employment Lawyer
An employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. They will tell you if you have a case against your employer, then can help you file a lawsuit, build a case, and pursue compensation.
Some lawyers may offer aFree Case Evaluation to affected pregnant women, so be sure to ask. You may also want to look for a lawyer specializing in pregnancy discrimination or sex discrimination cases.
2. File a Complaint
If you choose to pursue legal action, the first step is to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is a government agency that handles discrimination complaints.
Filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission can be intimidating, but an employment lawyer will be able to help you through the process. The EEOC will investigate your case and award you damages if they find that your employer violated the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act.
3. Sue Your Employer
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint, you may choose to sue your employer. This is a more expensive and time-consuming option, but it can succeed.
An employment lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against your employer and represent you in court. Suing your employer can be a difficult process, but with the help of a lawyer, you can win your case and get the pregnancy-related benefits you deserve.
Seek Legal Help Today!
If your employer fires you due to a pregnancy-related condition, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. You have the right to file a complaint and sue your employer if you feel that you have undergone unfair treatment. An employment lawyer can help make the process easier for you.
Contact Levine & Blit today at 212-967-3000 or reach out online to get started. Our lawyers have been practicing for many years and specialize in employment law. The team at Levine & Blit is here to help you get the justice you deserve.