Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation—not of fear about how your employer will respond. Unfortunately, far too many expectant and new mothers in New Jersey find themselves facing workplace discrimination because of their pregnancy, maternity leave, or related medical needs. This type of treatment is not only unethical—it’s illegal.
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is passionate about defending the rights of pregnant workers and ensuring they receive the accommodations, leave, and job security they deserve. If you’ve experienced discrimination related to your pregnancy in Atlantic County, you’re not alone—and the law is on your side.
What Does Pregnancy Discrimination Look Like?
Pregnancy discrimination can take many forms. Some women face open hostility, while others encounter more subtle forms of bias. Here are common examples of how pregnancy-related discrimination can appear in the workplace:
- Being denied promotions, raises, or assignments after disclosing a pregnancy
- Unfair discipline or poor performance reviews following maternity leave
- Refusal to provide reasonable accommodations, such as more frequent breaks or temporary reassignment
- Termination before or after taking pregnancy or maternity leave
- Inappropriate or harassing comments about one’s pregnancy or parenting
Any of these actions may violate New Jersey and federal laws protecting pregnant employees, including the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) and the Pregnancy Discrimination Act.
What Legal Protections Are Available?
Under NJLAD, it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against employees on the basis of pregnancy or conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth. Employers are also required to provide reasonable accommodations—such as modified work schedules, assistance with manual labor, or frequent restroom breaks—if recommended by a doctor.
The New Jersey Family Leave Act and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may also entitle eligible employees to unpaid, job-protected leave to care for a newborn. These laws apply depending on the size of the employer and the employee’s length of service.
How to Protect Your Rights
If you believe you’re being discriminated against due to your pregnancy, take the following steps:
- Document Everything: Keep a record of conversations, emails, and changes in treatment at work.
- Notify HR in Writing: Make a formal complaint, and retain a copy for your records.
- Seek Medical Support: If your doctor recommends specific accommodations, get it in writing.
- Talk to an Employment Lawyer: Legal guidance is critical to help you navigate your options and protect your rights.
You should never be forced to choose between your family and your job. Our legal system provides tools to fight back—and you deserve representation that understands how to use them effectively.
Why Choose NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC?
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we represent employees across New Jersey who face workplace discrimination—including women in Atlantic County who have been mistreated because of pregnancy. Our firm provides compassionate, personalized representation and is committed to securing justice for each client.
Whether your employer has denied your rights under NJLAD or retaliated against you for taking maternity leave, we will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and aggressively advocate for the resolution you deserve—whether that means negotiation or going to court.
If you’re in Atlantic County and believe you’ve been the victim of pregnancy discrimination, don’t wait. Time limits may apply to your claim, so speaking with a legal professional early can make all the difference.
Let’s Talk
NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027
Your job is to focus on your health and your growing family—let us focus on protecting your rights.
