Columbus Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyers
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Starting or growing your family should be an exciting time. A pregnancy should never be a reason for adverse action at your job. In fact, both state and federal laws protect pregnant employees from being discriminated against at work. Are you experiencing discrimination because of your pregnancy? Our experienced employment law attorneys at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC can protect your rights. From our offices in Columbus, our pregnancy discrimination lawyers are passionate about protecting the rights of Ohio employees.
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Understanding the Pregnancy Discrimination Act
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) prohibits employers with 15 or more employees from discriminating against an employee based on pregnancy or childbirth. This means that employers are barred from taking certain employment-related actions. Prohibited actions include:
- Refusing to hire a woman with a pregnancy-related condition when she is still capable of performing major job functions
- Denying a pregnant woman equal pay, benefits or opportunities for advancement
- Requiring a pregnant employee to take leave until the birth of her child
- Refusing to hire a pregnant applicant because of the perceived prejudices of customers and clients
- Refusing to hold a job open for a pregnancy-related absence if other employees on disability leave have their positions reserved
- Requiring those with pregnancy-related medical conditions to go through additional clearance procedures in order to receive insurance coverage
In addition, pregnant employees are also granted the same rights to accommodation as those who are temporarily disabled. This means that employers are required to reassign pregnant employees to lighter duties or modify tasks. They must also provide disability leave and allow the employee to take leave without pay.
What Is the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)?
Recently, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) granted additional protection for pregnant employees. Under the PWFA, pregnant employees have the right to receive reasonable accommodations at work. Examples of accommodations might include:
- Being allowed to sit more frequently
- Having a closer parking space
- Being temporarily relieved of strenuous tasks
The PWFA also requires employers to engage in a discussion with you about the accommodations you need. If you need legal guidance on this interactive process, our experienced employment law attorneys at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC can help.
Can Your Employer Terminate You While on FMLA Pregnancy Leave?
Generally, an employer cannot terminate you while you are taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The FMLA guarantees at least three months of unpaid leave to care for a new child for certain employees. Most employers are required to hold your job or an equivalent position for you while you are on approved leave. When you return from FMLA leave, your employer must reinstate you to your previous job or one with the same pay, benefits, and working conditions.
However, the FMLA is not an absolute shield against termination if your employer can prove the termination was unrelated to your leave. For example, if the company had a major, planned Reduction in Force (RIF) and would have eliminated your position even if you were at work, the termination might be legal.
Protecting Pregnant Employees Under Ohio Law
In Ohio, employees who work for companies with four or more employees also receive protection from discrimination. Under state discrimination laws, employers may not treat employees less favorably because of pregnancy or a pregnancy-related condition. This includes interfering with the receipt of fringe benefits.
How Can You File a Pregnancy Discrimination Claim?
Employees who have been discriminated against based on pregnancy can file a claim under federal law by sending a report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC will investigate the claim and if necessary, attempt to resolve the issues through mediation or settlement.
Otherwise, the employee will need to request a right to sue letter, which them 90 days to file a lawsuit in court. An employee who has been discriminated against also has the option of filing a claim with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or directly in state court. An experienced pregnancy discrimination lawyer can help you evaluate your options and develop a strategy based on your circumstances.
What Kinds of Damages Can You Receive for a Discrimination Case?
Every discrimination case is different. Therefore, potential damages will vary based on your circumstances. Successful plaintiffs may be able to collect the following types of damages:
- Back pay
- Lost benefits
- Out-of-pocket losses
- Front pay or reinstatement
- Court costs
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
Our experienced discrimination attorneys represent clients throughout Ohio who are experiencing all types of discrimination. Are you experiencing workplace discrimination because of your pregnancy? Our lawyers have decades of combined experience. They can help you assess your possible claims and seek justice and compensation for your losses.
Talk to a Columbus Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney
Our discrimination attorneys at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC are ready to answer your questions. To schedule a confidential consultation, you can call us at 614-762-9727. You can also reach out to us by sending a message through our website.