Pregnancy discrimination?

I have worked for my employer for 17 1/2 years. After being hit by a car I was put on temporary disability. I was told two weeks later I was getting a 10% pay cut due to the economy even though no one else in the small business had to take one. When I was ready to come back to work 3 months later and my doctor had given me the okay , I informed my employer that I had also married and had become pregnant durning my temp. disability. My employer asked if I was sure I wanted another child at my age (I am 41) and then I was told that I had to take another 40% pay cut if I wanted my job back due to the economy. I asked if any of the other employees (all male) had to take a pay cut and was told no...I made the most money and I had to take a pay cut reflecting the 40% the sales were down. I had no choice but to come back to work as it is my only source of income and had lost 3 months of wages already from being hit by a car. I am wondering if it is legal for him to do this. I feel I have been discriminated against because of my temporary disability, my pregnancy and my being the only female on staff. Please give me some advice on where to go from here. Thank you.

2 answers  |  asked Jan 3, 2010 11:42 AM [EST]  |  applies to California

Answers (2)

Elisa Ungerman
From the facts that you have given, it appears that your Employer has acted illegally towards you. Depending on how many employees this employer has, you may be entitled to compensation. You will need to contact the DFEH (www.dfeh.ca.gov) and lodge a complaint with it. In the meantime, you should contact a competent employment lawyer to discuss your case.

posted by Elisa Ungerman  |  Jan 4, 2010 1:08 PM [EST]
George Allen
Your description of these events raises serious questions about possible age, gender, pregnancy, and medical leave discrimination. Too many issues and questions to attempt to answer here. You should review the situation with an experienced employment lawyer. Try the membership listing at www.cela.org to locate an attorney.

posted by George Allen  |  Jan 3, 2010 1:54 PM [EST]

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