California Pregnancy and Maternity Leave Lawyers
Pregnancy Shouldn’t Cost You Your Career
You did everything right, followed procedures when taking your maternity leave of absence. You told your boss, filled out forms. Then came the cold shoulder. Or the sudden job reassignment. Or worse, the termination. You’re not alone. And you don’t have to put up with it.Not Sure Where to Begin?
Let’s talk. We’ll listen, explain your rights, and map out your next steps. Free of charge and free of pressure.
Take Back Control in 3 Steps
Step 02
Case Review
Mr. Henderson personally reviews your case.
Step 03
Proceed
If it’s a strong case, we fight for maximum compensation. If not, you owe nothing.
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Get clarity, support, and a legal plan that works for you.
Your Maternity Rights, Our Mission
California law protects your right to take time off for pregnancy, childbirth, and bonding; without losing your job or paycheck. But those rights are only as strong as your ability to enforce them.
We help expecting and new parents across California navigate powerful state and federal laws, including:
- Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL)
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA)
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- State Disability Insurance (SDI)
- Paid Family Leave (PFL)
Who’s Covered Under California Leave Laws?
You may be eligible if:
- Your employer has 5 or more employees (for PDL or CFRA)
- You’ve worked at least 1,250 hours in the last 12 months
- You need time off for pregnancy, childbirth, or bonding
- You’ve paid into California’s SDI fund (to qualify for wage benefits)
With the right circumstances, you may be entitled to:
- 4 months of leave for pregnancy-related disability (PDL)
- 12 weeks of bonding time with your child (CFRA)
- Up to 8 weeks of partial pay through Paid Family Leave (PFL)
- Job reinstatement and continued health coverage
PDL vs. CFRA: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) | California Family Rights Act (CFRA) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pregnancy-related disability | Bonding after birth, adoption, or foster care |
| Length | Up to 17.3 weeks | Up to 12 weeks |
| When It Applies | Before or after delivery, during medical need | After birth or placement |
| Job Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Can Be Combined? | Yes, consecutively | Yes, following PDL |
Real California Case, Real Results
One of our clients, a nurse in Ventura County, was denied leave after pregnancy complications. Her employer replaced her mid-shift. We took the case under FEHA and PDL, secured a $92,000 settlement, and reinstatement to a new hospital unit.
Deadlines For Maternity Leave Cases Matter
In California, you must typically act within:
- 3 years to file a claim under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
- 300 days to file a federal complaint under the EEOC
Miss those deadlines and your case may be dismissed, even if your employer clearly broke the law.
FAQs, Answered by Lawyers
Can I be fired for taking maternity leave?
No. Termination for using protected leave is illegal and could qualify as discrimination or retaliation.
Do I still get paid during my leave?
You may qualify for partial wage replacement through California’s SDI or PFL programs.
Is my job guaranteed when I return?
Yes. You must be reinstated to the same or a comparable position if your leave was legally protected.
What if my employer changes my duties after I return?
This could be a form of retaliation or demotion. Document it and speak with a lawyer immediately.
Can small businesses ignore these rules?
No. California laws like PDL and CFRA apply to employers with just 5 employees or more.
Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
Technically, no—but without legal help, employers often delay, deny, or retaliate. We ensure that doesn’t happen.
How much could I recover?
It depends on your case. Many clients recover damages for lost income, therapy, emotional distress, and more.
What does it cost to hire your firm?
There’s no upfront fee. We only get paid if we win your case. That means no risk to you.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What You Deserve & What We Deliver
Contingency-Based Representation
You don’t pay unless we win. Period.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
Every call, every email is handled by Mr. Henderson, not a paralegal
Confidential, Judgment-Free Consultations
Safe space to speak freely. Off the record until you’re ready
Expert Handling of Complex Cases
Over $31M recovered across harassment, retaliation, and discrimination claims against big corporations
Aggressive Negotiation & Trial Readiness
Whether it settles or goes to court, we prepare to win
Clear, No-Nonsense Communication
No legal jargon. Just straight answers & a strong strategy
Time Matters
If your employer violated your leave rights, your legal clock may already be ticking.
Let’s protect your job, your income, and your future.
Everything you share is 100% confidential. No pressure. No obligation. Just straight answers from an attorney who listens.