Wrongful Termination Due to Pregnancy in Texas: Understanding Your Legal Rights

What is Wrongful Termination Due to Pregnancy?

Wrongful termination due to pregnancy occurs when an employee is fired or forced to resign from their job because of their pregnancy. In Texas, as in other states, this is illegal under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), which is an amendment to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This law makes it clear that employees cannot be discriminated against based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

It’s important to note that wrongful termination due to pregnancy doesn’t always mean a company will openly state that pregnancy is the reason for firing someone. Sometimes, employers may find other reasons or disguise the real cause of the termination.

Signs You May Be Facing Wrongful Termination

If you’re pregnant and suspect that your job is at risk because of it, there are a few signs to watch out for:

• Sudden, unexplained disciplinary actions or negative performance reviews.
• Changes in work assignments that directly affect your ability to perform your job due to pregnancy-related issues.
• Unwarranted termination or forced resignation during your pregnancy or after returning from maternity leave.
• Harassment or mistreatment related to your pregnancy status.

If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s crucial to document everything and seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Your Legal Rights Under Texas Law

In Texas, the law prohibits discrimination against pregnant employees. Under both state and federal laws, you are entitled to the following rights:

• Protection from being fired because of pregnancy.
• The right to take maternity leave without fear of losing your job (this applies to employers with 15 or more employees).
• Equal treatment in terms of accommodations and benefits as any other employee who might have a temporary disability.

If your employer violates these rights, you may have a claim for wrongful termination and be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and possibly punitive damages.

How a Texas Lawyer Can Help You

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated due to pregnancy, contacting an experienced employment lawyer in Texas is the first step to understanding your rights. A skilled lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of labor laws and ensure that your case is presented effectively.

A lawyer can assist you with:

• Reviewing your termination circumstances and determining whether it constitutes wrongful termination.
• Filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
• Negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court if necessary.

Real Case Studies of Wrongful Termination

There have been numerous high-profile cases of wrongful termination due to pregnancy in Texas and across the United States. For example, in one notable case, a Texas woman was fired from her job at a large corporation after informing her boss that she was pregnant. The company claimed that her performance had slipped, but upon further investigation, it was clear that she had been subjected to discriminatory treatment because of her pregnancy.

In another case, a woman was forced to take maternity leave earlier than planned due to complications, and upon her return, she was told her position had been eliminated, despite having been assured it would be available. Legal action was taken, and she was awarded compensation for emotional distress and lost wages.

These real-life examples show just how serious and prevalent wrongful termination due to pregnancy can be, and how important it is to stand up for your rights.

How to Get Started with Legal Help

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated due to pregnancy, it’s time to take action. Start by documenting all the facts related to your situation, including emails, written communications, and witness statements. Then, schedule a consultation with a qualified employment lawyer in Texas.

At Central Texas Employment Lawyers, we specialize in helping employees who have been wrongfully terminated. Our experienced team will work closely with you to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. Click here to schedule a consultation today.