Pregnancy Discrimination in Atlantic County: Protecting Expecting and New Mothers at Work
Pregnancy Discrimination in Atlantic County: Protecting Expecting and New Mothers at Work
Pregnancy should be a time of joy—not job insecurity. Unfortunately, many expecting and new mothers still face discrimination in the workplace. If you live or work in Atlantic County and believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, you have strong legal protections under state and federal law.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably due to pregnancy, intention to become pregnant, childbirth, or medical conditions related to pregnancy. This discrimination may be subtle or direct and can affect hiring, job duties, promotions, leave, or termination.
Examples of Pregnancy Discrimination
- Refusing to hire someone because they are pregnant
- Reducing job duties or hours without medical justification
- Firing or demoting an employee after learning about the pregnancy
- Denying medical leave or accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions
- Harassment or derogatory comments about the pregnancy
Your Rights Under the Law
- New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD): Prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related needs, including bathroom breaks, rest periods, and temporary transfers.
- Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA): A federal law under Title VII that protects pregnant workers from discrimination and ensures equal treatment.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Allows eligible employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for childbirth and newborn care.
Reasonable Accommodations for Pregnant Employees
Under New Jersey law, you are entitled to accommodations such as:
- More frequent breaks
- Modified work schedules
- Temporary reassignment to less strenuous work
- Use of seating or hydration options
- Time off for prenatal or postnatal care
What to Do If You Experience Discrimination
- Document the details: Keep records of emails, performance reviews, and any discriminatory treatment.
- Report the issue internally: Use your company’s HR complaint process to file a report.
- Consult a pregnancy discrimination attorney: If internal action fails or you face retaliation, legal counsel can help assert your rights.
What You May Be Entitled To
- Back pay and lost wages
- Reinstatement or promotion
- Compensation for emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in extreme cases)
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys represent women in Atlantic County who have faced discrimination due to pregnancy. Their compassionate legal team understands the personal and professional stress this creates and will fight to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against because of pregnancy or maternity needs, don’t wait. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation and take a stand for yourself and your growing family.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
