Fighting Pregnancy Discrimination in the Modern Workplace
Wiki Article
Pregnancy should be a time of joy, not anxiety about your job. Yet, for many working women in New Jersey, pregnancy discrimination is a very real and troubling issue. From subtle shifts in workplace treatment to outright termination, expecting mothers often find themselves facing unfair and illegal workplace practices.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a woman unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. Under both federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, amended by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act) and New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD), such behavior is strictly prohibited.
Discrimination can arise in hiring, firing, job assignments, promotions, and any aspect of employment. Employers are also required to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions just as they would for any other temporary disability.
Common Signs of Pregnancy Discrimination
Being denied promotions or raises after announcing a pregnancy
Receiving reduced hours or being reassigned to less favorable duties
Unjustified discipline or poor performance reviews
Being excluded from meetings or training
Termination before, during, or after maternity leave
These actions not only harm a woman’s career but also violate her legal rights. Too often, employers use excuses like “restructuring” or “performance concerns” to mask discriminatory intent.
Your Rights Under New Jersey Law
New Jersey offers strong protections for pregnant workers. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination requires employers to treat pregnancy-related conditions similarly to other medical conditions in terms of accommodations and leave. Additionally, the New Jersey Family Leave Act provides up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave to care for a new child.
Employers must engage in an interactive process to determine reasonable accommodations. This may include more frequent breaks, temporary reassignment, or modified work schedules. Failure to provide these accommodations may constitute discrimination.
How to Respond to Pregnancy Discrimination
If you suspect pregnancy discrimination, here are steps you can take:
Document Everything – Keep emails, memos, and a log of incidents that indicate unfair treatment.
Report Internally – File a complaint with HR or follow your company’s internal grievance procedures.
Consult a Lawyer – Seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options for recourse.
Many women are hesitant to speak up, fearing retaliation or loss of employment. However, retaliation for reporting pregnancy discrimination is also illegal and can be the basis for an additional legal claim.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Pursuing a legal claim can be intimidating, but experienced employment lawyers know how to build a strong case. From filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to negotiating a settlement or litigating in court, an attorney is your advocate every step of the way.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we believe no woman should have to choose between her job and her family. Our legal team is dedicated to defending the rights of New Jersey workers, including those facing discrimination during one of the most important times in their lives.
Take control of your future by working with professionals who understand how to challenge workplace discrimination effectively and compassionately.
Atlantic County pregnancy discrimination attorneys are here to fight for your rights and your family’s future.
Contact Information
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
Phone: (973) 358-7027 Report this wiki page