Facing pregnancy discrimination in the workplace can leave you feeling isolated, stressed, and unsure of your rights. If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly due to your pregnancy, you may have legal options. Both federal and Colorado laws protect workers from pregnancy-based bias, and Denver employees are entitled to file claims when employers cross the line.
This guide explains how pregnancy discrimination works, your legal protections, and what steps you can take to hold your employer accountable.
What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats a worker unfairly due to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. It violates both Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (as amended by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act) and the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act.
Pregnancy discrimination can happen during hiring, employment, leave, or return to work. If your employer takes negative action against you simply because you’re pregnant or may become pregnant, that treatment is likely illegal.
Pregnancy Discrimination Examples
Understanding how discrimination appears in real-world situations can help you spot unlawful treatment. Here are some pregnancy discrimination examples:
Denial of Promotion or Raises
An employer may refuse to promote or give raises to pregnant workers, assuming they won’t return after maternity leave or won’t be as committed.
Termination or Layoff After Disclosure
Some workers are fired soon after telling their employer about their pregnancy. If there’s no legitimate reason and the timing is suspicious, this may signal discrimination.
Forced Leave or Reassignment
Employers cannot force you onto leave or move you to a different role unless you’re unable to perform essential job functions. You have the right to stay in your role if you’re medically able.
Refusing Reasonable Accommodations
Pregnant workers may need minor adjustments—like extra bathroom breaks or the ability to sit. If an employer refuses these when they’ve offered similar accommodations to others, that may be discriminatory.
Harassment or Derogatory Remarks
Negative comments about your pregnancy, family planning choices, or assumptions about your work ethic can contribute to a hostile work environment.
These are just a few examples of pregnancy discrimination at work. Each case is different, but if you’re treated unfairly in ways connected to your pregnancy, you may have grounds for a claim.
How to Prove Pregnancy Discrimination at Work
Like other employment discrimination claims, you need to show that your employer treated you differently because of your pregnancy or related condition.
Show You Belong to a Protected Class
Pregnancy is legally protected. As a pregnant employee—or someone affected by a related medical condition—you qualify for protection.
Identify the Harmful Action
This could be being fired, denied accommodations, forced onto leave, or harassed. Keep detailed records of what happened, including dates and people involved.
Connect the Action to Your Pregnancy
You’ll need to show that your pregnancy influenced the employer’s decision. Timing is key—for example, being fired shortly after disclosing your pregnancy. Comments or emails that mention your pregnancy as a problem can strengthen your claim.
Disprove the Employer’s Excuse
If the employer gives a neutral reason for their actions (like performance issues), you may need to show why that explanation doesn’t hold up. Comparing your treatment to coworkers in similar situations helps.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as discrimination at work because of pregnancy, consulting an attorney can help clarify your rights.
Speak with an Attorney Before Filing Your Charge
Before you file a claim, it’s wise to speak with an experienced employment attorney. A lawyer can help you understand whether your treatment qualifies as pregnancy discrimination and how strong your evidence is. An attorney can also help you draft a clear, legally sound complaint and determine whether to file with the EEOC or Colorado Civil Rights Division.
At Baker Law Group, PLLC, we work with clients to develop a legal strategy early. This avoids procedural mistakes and strengthens your case from the start. You don’t need to go through this process alone.
Steps to File a Pregnancy Discrimination Claim in Denver
If you’ve experienced pregnancy discrimination at work, follow these steps to take legal action:
Document the Incidents
Keep copies of emails, performance reviews, text messages, and write down details of any conversations or incidents. Include names, dates, and what was said or done.
Report Internally
If your company has an HR department or formal complaint process, report the issue in writing. Save a copy of your report. Internal documentation can be important evidence later.
File a Charge with the EEOC or CCRD
You must file a formal charge of discrimination with either the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) before filing a lawsuit. In Colorado, you generally have 300 days from the discriminatory act to file.
Cooperate with the Agency
Once your charge is filed, the agency may investigate, offer mediation, or ask for more information. Stay involved and provide all requested documents and statements.
Obtain a Right-to-Sue Letter
If the agency cannot resolve the case, they may issue a right-to-sue letter. This allows you to take your case to court. You usually have 90 days from the date of the letter to file a lawsuit.
File Your Lawsuit
With legal guidance, you can file your pregnancy discrimination claim in state or federal court. The lawsuit will outline how the employer violated your rights and what remedies you’re seeking.
How Much Can I Sue for Pregnancy Discrimination?
There’s no fixed amount, but pregnancy discrimination cases may result in compensation for:
Lost Wages and Benefits
Back pay and front pay for missed wages, bonuses, or lost benefits.
Emotional Distress
Compensation for anxiety, depression, or emotional harm caused by the discrimination.
Punitive Damages
In severe cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the employer’s conduct.
Legal Costs
If you win, your employer may be required to pay your attorney fees and court costs.
Settlement amounts vary depending on the strength of your evidence, your financial losses, and the severity of the discrimination. A consultation with an employment lawyer can help you estimate the value of your case.
Work with Baker Law Group, PLLC
Pregnancy discrimination claims require a careful legal strategy. At Baker Law Group, PLLC, we have experience representing employees throughout Denver who’ve faced unfair treatment at work. Our team is responsive, strategic, and results-driven. We guide you through each step, from documenting your experience to seeking the compensation you deserve.
Whether you’re still working or have already been let go, we’re here to help you understand your options and take action.
Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation
You have the right to work without being punished for becoming pregnant. If you’ve experienced discrimination at work because of pregnancy, don’t wait. There are time limits on your ability to file.
Reach out to Baker Law Group, PLLC today for a confidential consultation. We’ll listen, explain your rights, and help you move forward with strength and clarity.
