pregnancy disability in california

This law gives pregnant employees the right to obtain reasonable workplace accommodations and time off for pregnancy-related medical conditions.

If you are experiencing your rights being violated for pregnancy disability leave, please contact the California employment attorneys at Ottinger Employment Lawyers today.

We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, so there is no fee unless we win.

What Rights At Work Do I Have if I Become Pregnant?

If you work for a company in California that has five or more employees, you are fully protected under California law.

Not only do you have the right to reasonable accommodations and medical leave, but you also have the right to be free from any form of workplace discrimination related to your pregnancy.

This means that employers cannot fire, harass, refuse to hire, or otherwise discriminate against you.

What are Pregnancy-Related Disabilities?

A pregnancy disability is any medical condition caused by your pregnancy that limits your ability to perform your job.

Your doctor should determine if you have a pregnancy-related disability or if any aspect of your job would put you or your pregnancy at risk.

Common pregnancy disabilities include gestational diabetes, hypertension caused by your pregnancy, severe morning sickness, depression, and issues surrounding the loss or end of a pregnancy.

What if I Need Workplace Accommodations Due to my Pregnancy?

The Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDL) gives you the right to request and receive reasonable workplace accommodations to deal with your medical needs.

Here are a few examples of workplace accommodations frequently provided to pregnant employees:

  • Longer or more frequent rest breaks,
  • Changes to your work duties,
  • Telecommuting,
  • Access to a stool or chair to reduce standing time,
  • Temporary transfer to a new position, and
  • Private lactation room.

Can I Take Medical Leave Due to a Pregnancy-Related Medical Condition?

Yes, the PDL provides California employees with the right to take up to 4 months of leave.

This leave is in addition to your right to leave under the California Family Rights Act or Family Medical Leave Act.

Your doctor will recommend how much leave you need.

Contact a California Pregnancy Disability Attorney Today

If you have questions about pregnancy disability in California or if your employer is denying you your rights, contact Ottinger Employment Lawyers online or call us at (866) 659-7461. Our pregnancy disability lawyers are ready to help.

We have offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco. For details about Los Angeles office, please click here. For details about our San Francisco office, please click here.