Sex/Gender/Pregnancy Discrimination

Sex, Gender, and Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer in El Paso

At The Law Office of Jorge Luis Rivas, Jr., we fight for the rights of employees who have been treated unfairly in the workplace because of their sex, gender, pregnancy, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Federal and Texas laws protect workers from discrimination, but unfortunately, many employers still engage in unlawful practices.
If you have experienced discrimination based on sex, gender, pregnancy, or gender identity, you may have the right to take legal action and recover damages. Whether the discrimination came from a supervisor, coworker, or company policy, our law firm is here to help.

Pregnant lady in a white shirt sitting on a sofa holding her stomach and looking down and sad.

What is Sex and Gender Discrimination in the Workplace?

Sex and gender discrimination occur when an employee is treated differently or unfairly because of their biological sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Victims of workplace discrimination can be men, women, transgender, or non-binary individuals. Importantly, the victim and harasser may be of the same gender. Examples of sex and gender discrimination include:

  • Hiring and firing decisions based on gender – Employers cannot refuse to hire or terminate employees simply because of their sex or gender identity. If you are qualified for the position, your gender should never be a factor.
  • Unequal job duties – Assigning fewer or less favorable tasks to employees based on gender is unlawful. Job responsibilities must align with the job description, not stereotypes.
  • Unfair distribution of bonuses or benefits – Compensation and benefits must be awarded fairly. Unequal bonuses, commissions, or perks based on gender are a violation of employment laws.
  • Barriers to advancement – Denying promotions or career growth opportunities due to gender bias is a common form of workplace discrimination. Advancement should be based on skills, education, and performance—not gender.
  • Unequal pay for equal work – The Equal Pay Act requires employers to provide equal pay for employees performing the same job. Pay discrimination remains one of the most frequent workplace violations.

Pregnancy Discrimination in the Workplace

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly because she is pregnant, has a pregnancy-related condition, or is taking maternity leave. Federal laws, including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), provide important protections for expectant mothers.

Common examples of pregnancy discrimination include:

-Not hired because of pregnancy – An otherwise qualified applicant cannot be denied a job solely due to pregnancy.
-Wrongful termination – Employers cannot fire an employee simply because she is pregnant.
-Denied health or insurance benefits – Pregnant employees are entitled to the same health benefits as other employees.
-Failure to accommodate doctor’s restrictions – If your doctor places work restrictions (such as lifting limits), your employer must attempt reasonable accommodations.
-Denied promotions – Pregnancy cannot be used as an excuse to withhold career advancement.
-Prohibited return to work after maternity leave – Employers generally cannot prevent you from resuming your position after maternity or FMLA leave.
-Violation of FMLA rights – Eligible employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for childbirth or bonding with a new child.

Pregnant woman working from home, sitting on a couch, using a laptop, illustrating remote work and motherhood.
Young woman attending a job interview in a modern office, showcasing confidence and professionalism.

Protecting Your Rights Against Workplace Discrimination

If you believe you have been a victim of sex, gender, or pregnancy discrimination, you do not have to face your employer alone. Filing a complaint with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) or pursuing legal action can be complex, but an experienced employment discrimination attorney in El Paso can guide you every step of the way.
At The Law Office of Jorge Luis Rivas, Jr., we are dedicated to protecting workers’ rights and holding employers accountable for unlawful practices.

Take Action Today

Workplace discrimination can cause emotional stress, financial loss, and career setbacks. You have legal rights, and we are here to defend them.

Call The Law Office of Jorge Luis Rivas, Jr. today to schedule a confidential consultation with an El Paso sex and gender discrimination lawyer. Let us help you fight for the fair treatment and compensation you deserve.