Your Voice With A Frederick Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney
Starting a family should be a time of joy and excitement. If you believe that your employer discriminated against you because you are pregnant, you may feel isolated and betrayed. Attorney Stephen S. Burgoon understands the deep stress this causes. He has spent over 20 years advocating for people experiencing employment law violations such as pregnancy discrimination.
Since 2005, The Law Firm of Stephen S. Burgoon has served the people of Frederick and the surrounding communities of Maryland. He is a solo practitioner who works with you one-on-one, providing the compassion and empathy that you deserve. He never works for big corporations or insurance companies. He only represents plaintiffs. This means he is always on your side.
What Qualifies As Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or applicant unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions. At the federal level, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act requires employers to treat pregnant women the same as other employees with temporary disabilities. Under this law, you have a right to keep working as long as you can perform your duties.
Even with this pregnancy discrimination law in place, some employers violate the rights of pregnant employees. Common examples of workplace mistreatment related to pregnancy discrimination can include:
- Firing or demoting a woman because she is pregnant
- Refusing to hire an applicant due to her pregnancy
- Denying the same health insurance benefits provided to other employees
- Forcing a pregnant worker to take unpaid leave
- Harassing an employee about her pregnancy or upcoming maternity leave
- Refusing to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related needs
Employers have a duty to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees. Reasonable accommodations are simple changes that help you perform your work duties. This might include extra bathroom breaks, a chair to sit on, or a temporary modification of physical duties.
What Should I Do If I Experience Pregnancy Discrimination?
If you suspect that your employer is targeting you, you can take action to protect your future. You do not have to wait until you are fired to seek help. Evidence is the most important part of your case. Taking these steps early can make a big difference:
- Keep detailed records of conversations, emails or meetings. Include dates, times and the names of people involved.
- Review the employee handbook policy on pregnancy and leave.
- Report the behavior in writing so you have a record.
- Keep copies of your performance reviews.
- Speak with a pregnancy discrimination attorney to understand your legal rights.
As an employment law attorney, Stephen S. Burgoon can sit down with you in a free consultation to help you understand the strength of your case.
Do I Need To Hire A Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer?
Employment discrimination due to pregnancy is illegal, but employers often try to hide their motives. They have their own legal teams to protect themselves. You need an advocate of your own who knows how to uncover the truth. If you do not take action, you risk losing your income, your benefits and your job. Attorney Stephen S. Burgoon handles every detail of your case personally, always upholding your rights. He ensures that your employer hears your voice loud and clear.
Reach Out To A Maryland Employment Lawyer: Free Consultations
Attorney Stephen S. Burgoon is ready to stand up to pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. He provides the compassionate care you need to move forward. To schedule a completely confidential, free initial consultation with him, please call 240-315-5432 or send him an email today.
