Pregnancy must be a positive and empowering experience in your life, not a source of stress, job loss, or abuse. But too frequently, announcing a pregnancy at work results in discriminatory treatment, lowered responsibilities, lost opportunity, or even discharge.
If it has occurred to you, understand this: pregnancy discrimination is unlawful, and you do not have to accept it lying down. With the assistance of a qualified pregnancy discrimination lawyer in Manhattan, you can enforce your rights and compel your employer to pay.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination is the discriminatory treatment of an employee due to pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related medical conditions. It is a violation of federal, state, and local laws that include pregnant employees. Examples are:
- Being fired or suspended for disclosing pregnancy
- Refused promotion or opportunity due to pregnancy
- Being forced to take unpaid leave instead of being accommodated
- Harassed or discriminated against due to pregnancy
- Deprived of fair accommodations, such as lighter duties or flexible schedules
- Punished for taking maternity leave
Whether you are employed full-time, part-time, or on a contract, you are protected by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. New York State and City law offer even more protection, leaning towards covering smaller employers and having more stringent requirements for accommodation.
Your Legal Protections in New York
In addition to federal protections, New York laws provide stronger safeguards:
- New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) protects employees against pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, including in businesses employing fewer than 15 employees.
- New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) gives a broader definition to protections for pregnancy. It mandates employers to grant reasonable accommodations to pregnant workers and workers with pregnancy-related conditions.
- These local laws mandate that employers must have a cooperative discussion when one of their pregnant workers needs accommodations. They cannot directly say “no” without discussing it with you.
Proving Pregnancy Discrimination
Similar to other forms of discrimination in the workplace, pregnancy discrimination usually depends on the evidence and time. An experienced Manhattan pregnancy discrimination attorney may assist in collecting evidence, including testimony of eyewitnesses, and proving a pattern of discrimination.
Here are some things your attorney may use to build your case:
- Messages or correspondence showing abrupt changes in tone or responsibility when declaring pregnancy
- Evidence of abusive language or behavior
- A working record showing consistent performance before the discrimination
- Timing of negative actions, e.g., firing shortly after you announce your pregnancy
- Failure to accommodate documented medical requirements during pregnancy
Even if you weren’t let go, if your employer made your work life unbearable, forced you out, or denied benefits, you may still have a case.
Why You Need a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer in Manhattan
Discrimination cases are complicated. Employers try to cover their tracks or give false explanations for what they have done. You need an experienced pregnancy discrimination attorney who can spot inconsistencies, know employment law rules, and fight for justice on your behalf.
Here’s what a lawyer can do for you:
- Review your case during a free consultation
- Explain your rights and the applicable federal, state, and city laws.
- Help you file a complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- Negotiate with your employer to get your job back, recover back wages, or for other damages.
- Represent you in court, if necessary
What Compensation Can You Get?
If you succeed in establishing pregnancy discrimination, you may be entitled to:
- Restoration of your job
- Back pay (wages lost due to discrimination)
- Front pay (for future lost wages)
- Compensatory damages for emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in exceptional cases)
- Legal fees
Every case is different, and compensation varies depending on the circumstances and the severity of harm inflicted upon you. A reputable attorney will do their best to get you the best possible recovery and compel your employer to take responsibility.
Don’t Suffer in Silence Get the Legal Support You Deserve
The majority of the workers are afraid of retaliation and hence do not report discrimination. It is also against the law to retaliate against someone who reports discrimination.
With the help of a well-known pregnancy discrimination lawyer in Manhattan, you can fearlessly stand up for your rights. You’re not just standing up for yourself, you’re making the workplace a better place for everyone.
Call Cohen and Fitch LLP: Your Advocates in Employment Discrimination Law
If you have been a victim of pregnancy discrimination, do not wait. Call Cohen & Fitch LLP for immediate help. We are committed to representing New York City employees subjected to workplace discrimination, mistreatment, or illegal retaliation.
We understand how discrimination can impact your life economically and emotionally. Our lawyers understand federal, state, and local employment laws very well. We will fight to secure the justice and compensation you deserve, whether it is for rehabilitation, damages, or litigation.
We can also help you with:
- Gender and sexual orientation discrimination
- Racial and religious discrimination
- Disability and age employment issues
- Retaliation and harassment
- EEOC charges and employment-related lawsuits
Act now! Call us today and let Cohen & Fitch LLP help you fight against workplace discrimination!
