San Francisco Sex and Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyers
Skilled Sex and Pregnancy Discrimination Attorneys in San Francisco, CA
Representing Victims of Workplace Discrimination
Sex and pregnancy discrimination can manifest in many ways, including wrongful termination, denial of promotions, unequal pay, refusal to accommodate medical needs, or retaliation for asserting your legal rights. At Lawless, Lawless & McGrath, we represent women facing these challenges, leveraging our deep knowledge of California and federal employment laws, including FEHA, FMLA, CFRA, and the California Equal Pay Act (Labor Code Section 1197.5).
Our compassionate yet strategic approach ensures we listen to your story with empathy while focusing on the critical details of your case. Whether you’re seeking compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, or punitive damages, or aiming to enforce workplace policy changes, we are dedicated to achieving meaningful results. We help you navigate complex laws governing family leave, maternity leave, and workplace accommodations to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Our Expertise in Sex and Pregnancy Discrimination Cases
Lawless, Lawless & McGrath is a trusted leader in employment law, with a strong focus on protecting women from discrimination. Founding partners and sisters Barbara A. Lawless and Therese M. Lawless bring decades of trial experience to every case and are members of The American Board of Trial Advocates, an invitation only organization of the most experienced trial attorneys in the country. Barbara, recognized by Super Lawyers and the Lawdragon 500 Leading Civil Rights & Plaintiff Employment Lawyers, has a proven track record in litigating discrimination claims. Therese, also recognized by Super Lawyers, is a member of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers and an expert in gender discrimination, equal pay, and retaliation cases, complementing Barbara’s skills for comprehensive representation.
Our team also includes Emily S. McGrath, who excels in handling complex discrimination and retaliation claims, and Sinclaire M. Parer, whose meticulous case preparation strengthens our advocacy. We have successfully represented clients across industries, from tech to healthcare, ensuring women facing discrimination receive the justice they deserve. Our commitment to client advocacy and deep expertise in employment law sets us apart.
Why Choose Lawless, Lawless & McGrath?
Choosing the right attorney is crucial in a discrimination case. At Lawless, Lawless & McGrath, we provide personalized attention, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process. Based in San Francisco, we have an in-depth understanding of California’s employment laws and a robust network to investigate and litigate your case effectively. We generally operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorneys’ fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and seasoned trial lawyers, ready to pursue your case through settlement or litigation. As active members of the California Employment Lawyers Association, we stay at the forefront of evolving laws to provide cutting-edge representation. Our history of favorable outcomes reflects our dedication to fighting for our clients.
Types of Sex and Pregnancy Discrimination We Address
Our firm handles a wide range of claims related to sex and pregnancy discrimination, including:
- Gender-Based Discrimination: Representing employees facing unfair treatment, such as denial of promotions or unequal pay, due to their gender under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
- Pregnancy Discrimination: Advocating for employees denied accommodations, terminated, or demoted due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including violations of the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA).
- Harassment: Addressing hostile work environments created by sexual harassment, gender-based comments, or inappropriate conduct targeting employees because of their sex or pregnancy.
- Retaliation: Protecting employees penalized, demoted, or terminated for asserting their rights under laws like FEHA, PDA, or the California Equal Pay Act, such as reporting gender-based discrimination.
- Denial of Leave or Accommodations: Fighting for employees denied maternity leave, reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions, or reinstatement to their position after taking protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
Our Case Results
Our success in sex and pregnancy discrimination cases underscores our commitment to justice. Below are examples of our significant verdicts and settlements:
- $1,500,000 Settlement – Defamation; Wrongful termination: A female doctor was terminated from her part-time employment and falsely accused of wrongdoing.
- $950,000 Settlement – Sexual Harassment; Defamation; Gender Discrimination: A female city employee was falsely accused of a crime and forced to work in a hostile work environment because of her gender.
- $550,000 Settlement – Sexual Harassment: Secretary in law firm subjected to sexual harassment by attorney.
These results highlight our ability to handle sensitive cases with care and tenacity. While past successes do not guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our dedication to securing justice for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as sex or pregnancy discrimination in the workplace?
Discrimination includes wrongful termination, denial of promotions, unequal pay, refusal to accommodate pregnancy-related medical needs, or retaliation for taking family leave or asserting your rights under FEHA, FMLA, or CFRA.
Learn more about what is considered sex or pregnancy discrimination.
Do I need to leave my job to file a discrimination claim?
No, you can pursue a claim while still employed. We can help protect you from retaliation and seek remedies without requiring you to leave your job.
How long do I have to file a discrimination claim?
In California, you generally have three years from the incident to file a claim under FEHA, but federal claims (e.g., Title VII) require filing with the EEOC within 180–300 days. Contact us promptly to meet deadlines.
Click here to learn more about how long you have to file a discrimination claim.
Will my case go to trial?
Many cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it will go to court. We’ll discuss the best strategy for your situation, whether negotiation or litigation.
Contact a San Francisco Sex and Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney for Support
At Lawless, Lawless & McGrath, we believe no one should face discrimination at work. Our San Francisco team is here to guide you through every step, from consultation to resolution. We serve clients throughout California, including Oakland and surrounding areas. To discuss your case, call us at 415-391-7555 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.