Wilmette Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

Pregnancy discrimination remains a significant employment issue, affecting countless women across Illinois. This type of discrimination not only undermines a woman’s career opportunities but also violates her civil rights. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we are skilled in employment law and are dedicated to defending the rights of pregnant employees. With over 30 years of experience, our Wilmette pregnancy discrimination attorney brings compassion, integrity and a proven track record to every case. If you believe you have faced pregnancy discrimination, our firm is here to provide the legal support you need.

What is Pregnancy Discrimination?

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a woman unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions. This form of discrimination can manifest in various ways, such as:

Refusal to hire a qualified candidate due to her pregnancy.
Denying a promotion or other job opportunities.
Unequal treatment in job assignments, pay or conditions of employment.
Unlawful termination or forcing a pregnant employee to take leave when accommodations are available.

These actions violate a woman’s civil rights, disrupting her career and financial stability during a critical time. It’s essential to recognize these practices and seek legal assistance to safeguard your rights.

Legal Protections Against Pregnancy Discrimination

Federal and state laws provide robust protections for pregnant employees. Under the amended Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) and federal laws like the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are prohibited from discriminating against pregnant workers. These laws mandate that employers must:

Provide reasonable accommodations such as modified work schedules, light duty assignments, more frequent breaks and private spaces for breastfeeding.
Refrain from forcing leave on pregnant employees if reasonable accommodations are possible.
Ensure job reinstatement after maternity leave, with the same or equivalent position, pay and benefits.

Illinois law also requires employers to offer specific accommodations, including increased breaks for water intake and rest periods, transfer to less strenuous positions and adequate recovery time post-childbirth. Employers can request medical documentation to justify accommodations, but this request is limited to necessary information only.

How the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline Can Help

At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we understand the complexities of pregnancy discrimination cases. Our extensive experience in employment law and dedication to client advocacy ensure that we handle each case with the utmost care and professionalism. Here’s how we can assist:

Case Evaluation: We offer a free consultation to evaluate your situation, gather evidence and determine the best course of action.
Legal Representation: Whether you are a victim of discrimination or an employer facing allegations, our firm provides aggressive representation tailored to your needs.
Guidance: Navigating pregnancy discrimination laws can be daunting. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and the legal process.
Negotiation and Litigation: We aim to resolve disputes through negotiation and mediation. However, if litigation becomes necessary, our experienced attorneys will advocate fiercely on your behalf in court.

Take Action Now With a Wilmette Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

Pregnancy discrimination is not just unfair; it’s illegal. If you have faced discrimination due to pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, don’t wait to seek justice. Contact the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline today for a consultation and review of your case. Time is crucial in gathering evidence and building a strong claim. Let our Wilmette pregnancy discrimination attorney help you protect your rights.