Pregnancy should mark the beginning of a joyous chapter, but for many California employees, it also launches a period of workplace anxiety. So it’s natural to ask, Can you get fired for being pregnant? Luckily, the short answer is no—federal and state laws protect your right to work while pregnant. However, the reality is that some employers find ways to sidestep these protections, leaving you vulnerable. That’s where we step in. Contact the Law Office of John Dalton today to uphold your rights from the start. John Dalton has been championing workers for decades with a compassionate yet unrelenting approach.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer Who Focuses on Labor Laws, Pregnancy Discrimination?
Employers often deploy sophisticated tactics to avoid accountability. When you’re up against an employer undermining your rights, having the right legal advocate can make all the difference.
A lawyer focusing on labor laws and pregnancy discrimination—like John Dalton—deeply understands local nuances and the strategies to counter these challenges effectively. We don’t just know the law—we know how to apply it to achieve results. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized case analysis—we carefully examine your situation’s details to identify legal violations and craft a tailored strategy;
- Proactive evidence collection—from gathering internal documents to securing witness statements, we handle the heavy lifting to build a robust case; and
- Skilled negotiation and litigation—whether it’s pursuing a fair settlement or fighting in court, we relentlessly advocate for you.
Working with the Law Office of John Dalton ensures you have the knowledge and support to push back effectively. With decades of experience and a history of securing significant verdicts, we can help you regain peace of mind and protect your career.
What Does Pregnancy Discrimination Look Like?
Pregnancy discrimination isn’t always blatant. Often, discrimination manifests in subtle, insidious actions that erode your confidence and position. Examples include:
- Negative performance reviews unrelated to your actual work;
- Denial of rightful promotions or salary increases;
- Unjustified demotions or terminations after disclosing your pregnancy;
- Sudden changes in responsibilities designed to sideline your role; and
- Refusal to provide reasonable accommodations required by law.
Facing discriminatory treatment can leave you feeling isolated and uncertain about what to do next. That’s why it’s crucial to contact us. We’ll provide the immediate support and guidance you need to address these injustices and hold your employer accountable.
Can You Get Fired for Being Pregnant? Understanding Labor Laws and Pregnancy Discrimination Protections in California
So, can you get fired for being pregnant? By now, you probably know the short answer is no. Thanks to the following California and federal labor laws offering robust protections for pregnant employees, pregnancy discrimination is illegal:
- Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)—a California state law that expands protections by requiring reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related needs; and
- Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA)—a federal statute prohibiting discrimination based on pregnancy in hiring, firing, and other employment decisions;
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA)—the CFRA grants up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for pregnancy or bonding with a newborn.
These laws are your safety net—but they’re only effective when properly enforced. Contact us before doing anything else to ensure your full rights.
Understanding Workplace Rights for Pregnant Employees in California
California offers some of the strongest workplace rights for pregnant employees in the nation, including:
- Freedom from discrimination. The FEHA prohibits employers from discriminating against you because of your pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This applies to hiring, firing, promotions, and other terms of employment.
- Reasonable accommodations. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified duties (e.g. less lifting, standing, bending) or additional breaks, to pregnant employees who need them.
- Protected leave. Under the California Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDLL), you are entitled to up to four months of unpaid, job-protected leave for pregnancy-related conditions.
- Fair treatment during leave. Your employer cannot retaliate against you for taking leave. They must also reinstate you to the same or a comparable position when your leave ends.
- Equal benefits. You must receive the same health insurance benefits during your pregnancy and leave as any other employee on leave for a temporary disability.
Contact the Law Office of John Dalton immediately if you believe your employer violated your rights. We’ll help you take the correct steps to protect your job and hold your employer accountable for wrongdoing.
What Should I Do When Pregnancy Discrimination Strikes?
The best step you can take when you suspect discrimination is to contact us. Many employees try to handle the situation by filing HR complaints or contacting government agencies like the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). Unfortunately, these steps often backfire. Common missteps include:
- Using language employers twist against you;
- Checking incorrect boxes on agency forms; and
- Allowing critical deadlines to lapse.
When you contact us, we’ll guide you from the outset, safeguarding your claim while fighting for your rights.
The Law Office of John Dalton Will Fight Tirelessly for You
When you choose the Law Office of John Dalton, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining an ally with a history of extraordinary results, including tens of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements and one of the nation’s largest sexual harassment verdicts. Since founding his practice in 1998, John has focused exclusively on employment law. His career began with the Central Intelligence Agency, where he honed his analytical and problem-solving skills, a foundation that shaped the meticulous, strategic approach he brings to each case. Known for his accessibility and dedication, John listens to your concerns and will answer and return your calls personally, ensuring you feel supported throughout your case.
With a proven track record and a steadfast commitment to justice, John and his team are ready to fight for your workplace rights. Contact us today for a free case review, and let us help you hold your employer accountable.
Resources
California Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDLL) Fact Sheet. Link
Leave for Pregnancy Disability and Child Bonding: Quick Reference Guide. Link