A Los Angeles-based employment law firm is stepping up efforts to represent manufacturing workers across Southern California who face pregnancy discrimination on the job, citing ongoing concerns about unequal treatment in physically demanding workplaces.
Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C. announced it is offering legal support to employees in counties including Los Angeles, Kern, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura. The firm said it is seeing continued violations of state and federal laws that protect pregnant workers, particularly in industries where accommodations may be overlooked.
“Too often, pregnant employees, especially those in physically demanding jobs, find themselves unfairly treated or even pushed out of the workforce,” said attorney Michael Akopyan, a spokesperson for the firm. “We are committed to holding employers accountable and ensuring that every worker receives the protections they deserve under the law.”
Discrimination persists despite legal protections
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), employers are prohibited from discriminating based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The law requires employers with five or more workers to provide reasonable accommodations, such as lighter duty, schedule adjustments, or additional breaks.
But the firm says pregnant workers are still reporting demotions, denied promotions, cut hours, and even terminations — outcomes that may violate legal protections.
“When a manufacturing employee experiences discrimination because of pregnancy, the impacts can be devastating both financially and emotionally,” Akopyan said.
Legal support and awareness
Akopyan Law Firm offers free case evaluations to help workers determine whether their rights may have been violated. The firm assists clients through the legal process, including filing discrimination claims and, when necessary, pursuing litigation.
In California, employees must typically secure a “right to sue” notice before proceeding with a lawsuit. The firm helps clients navigate this requirement, along with documentation and legal representation.
The firm has built a reputation for handling workplace discrimination cases and emphasizes personalized service for clients seeking help. Akopyan noted that workers often aren’t aware of their full legal protections or how to pursue them.
By offering legal guidance tailored to the unique demands of the manufacturing sector, the firm says it aims to ensure that pregnant workers are not forced to choose between their jobs and their health.
