Pregnancy should never be a reason for mistreatment in the workplace, yet many employees face discrimination, job loss, or retaliation simply for expecting a child. At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we represent workers who have been denied accommodations, demoted, or wrongfully terminated due to pregnancy.
As Worcester pregnancy discrimination lawyers, we fight to hold employers accountable when they violate state and federal employment laws. Since opening in 2022, our firm has been committed to protecting employees from workplace discrimination. No one should have to choose between their job and their health, and we are here to ensure that employers follow the law.
If your employer has reduced your hours, retaliated against you for requesting leave, or refused to adjust your workload due to medical needs, legal action may be necessary.
A Worcester employment discrimination lawyer from our team can help you explore your options and take the next steps toward securing justice.
What Qualifies as Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.
Both Massachusetts and federal laws prohibit such discrimination, ensuring that pregnant employees receive the same treatment and opportunities as other workers.
For a free legal consultation with a pregnancy discrimination lawyer serving Worcester, call (860) 999-9394
Common Forms of Pregnancy Discrimination
Some of the most common types of pregnancy discrimination include:
- Refusal to hire or promote: Employers cannot deny job opportunities based on pregnancy.
- Wrongful termination: Firing an employee due to pregnancy is illegal.
- Reduced hours or job reassignment: Employers cannot cut an employee’s hours or demote them simply because they are pregnant.
- Denial of reasonable accommodations: Employers must provide reasonable adjustments, such as modified work duties or additional breaks, to accommodate pregnancy-related needs.
- Retaliation for requesting accommodations or taking leave: Employees cannot be punished for requesting maternity leave or accommodations.
If you have faced any of these issues, a Worcester labor and employment lawyer can help you file a claim against your employer.
Worcester Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
Legal Protections for Pregnant Employees in Massachusetts
Pregnant employees in Worcester are protected by multiple laws that ensure fair treatment and workplace accommodations. These protections apply to hiring, promotions, job assignments, and medical leave.
- The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA): A federal law prohibiting pregnancy-based discrimination in workplaces with 15 or more employees
- Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act (Chapter 151B): State law protecting workers from discrimination based on pregnancy or childbirth
- The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA): Requires Massachusetts employers to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for pregnancy-related medical needs or childbirth
Employers must comply with these laws, ensuring that pregnant employees receive the same rights and protections as others in the workplace. If an employer violates these regulations, a Worcester pregnancy discrimination lawyer can help you take legal action.
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What to Do if You Experience Pregnancy Discrimination
If you believe you have been discriminated against due to pregnancy, taking the right steps can help protect your legal rights.
Steps to Take After Discrimination Occurs
- Document the discrimination: Keep a record of discriminatory comments, job changes, or retaliation related to your pregnancy.
- Request accommodations in writing: If your employer refuses accommodations, a written request serves as evidence.
- Report the issue internally: File a formal complaint with your human resources department.
- Consult a lawyer: An experienced pregnancy discrimination attorney in Worcester, MA can assess your case and guide you through the next steps.
Employees have 300 days from the date of discrimination to file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). Filing within this timeframe is essential to preserving your rights.
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Filing a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuit
If internal complaints and administrative claims do not resolve the issue, employees may file a lawsuit against their employer. A successful claim can result in:
- Reinstatement to a former position
- Back pay and lost wages
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Legal fees and court costs
Employers who violate pregnancy discrimination laws may face penalties and be required to change workplace policies to ensure compliance with the law. As pregnancy discrimination lawyers in Worcester, MA, we fight to ensure our clients receive justice and fair compensation.
How Pregnancy Discrimination Affects Employees
Pregnancy discrimination can have lasting consequences on an employee’s career, financial stability, and well-being. Many workers who experience discrimination are forced to leave their jobs, impacting their ability to provide for their families. Others face stress, anxiety, or depression due to workplace mistreatment.
Employers that engage in pregnancy discrimination not only harm individual workers but also create a culture of inequality. Ensuring that employees can work in a safe and fair environment is essential for maintaining workplace rights. If you have faced discrimination, you do not have to handle it alone—our firm is here to help.
How Our Worcester Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyers Can Help
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we are committed to protecting the rights of pregnant employees in Worcester. We understand that standing up to an employer can be difficult, but you do not have to go through it alone.
Our firm provides personalized legal strategies, helping clients build strong cases, file administrative claims, and pursue litigation when necessary.
If you have been discriminated against due to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition, you have legal rights. Our firm is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the accommodations, job security, and fair treatment you deserve.
Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form