Got demoted after announcing my pregnancy
Announced pregnancy two weeks ago. Today I was 'restructured' into a lower role with less pay. Coincidence?
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Announced pregnancy two weeks ago. Today I was 'restructured' into a lower role with less pay. Coincidence?
✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
Timing is everything in retaliation/discrimination cases, and two weeks is suspicious enough that a plaintiff's attorney will pay close attention. Pregnancy discrimination under Title VII / PDA / state laws covers BOTH outright firing and adverse actions like demotion, schedule reduction, pay cut. Steps now: (1) don't sign anything. (2) Document the demotion in writing — ask the employer in writing for the reason. (3) File an EEOC charge (free, online, 180 days from the adverse action; 300 days in CA via DFEH/CRD which is the same agency for practical purposes). (4) Consult a plaintiff's employment attorney — these cases are often contingency-fee. Strong cases. Save your medical records (showing pregnancy disclosure date) and your performance reviews (showing prior good standing).
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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.