Maternity Leave Rights in Brampton Workplaces
Having a child should be a time of joy—not job-related stress. Yet, many Brampton employees face discrimination, job loss, or benefit cuts after announcing a pregnancy or returning from maternity leave. If this has happened to you, it may be illegal.
At Brampton Employment Lawyers, we represent employees who are being mistreated before, during, or after maternity leave. Whether you’ve been denied your job back, passed over for a promotion, or let go after returning to work, we’re here to protect your legal rights.
Understanding Your Legal Entitlements
Under Ontario's Employment Standards Act (ESA) and the Human Rights Code, pregnant employees and new parents are entitled to certain workplace protections:
- Up to 17 weeks of maternity (pregnancy) leave
- Up to 61 weeks of parental leave (or 63 if maternity leave wasn’t taken)
- Job-protected leave—your role or a comparable one must be available upon return
- Continuation of benefits during leave
- Protection from retaliation or dismissal due to pregnancy or leave
These rights apply regardless of whether you are full-time, part-time, or on contract (with some exceptions).
Signs of Maternity Leave Discrimination
Unfortunately, not all employers in Brampton uphold these obligations. Here are common ways your rights may be violated:
- Being fired or laid off shortly after announcing a pregnancy
- Being told your position is no longer available when you return
- Receiving fewer hours or lower pay after leave
- Being excluded from meetings, decisions, or projects
- Facing hostility or isolation upon return
If any of these scenarios sound familiar, you may have grounds for a wrongful dismissal or human rights complaint.
Your Right to Return to Work
When your maternity or parental leave ends, your employer must reinstate you to your original job or a comparable one in terms of pay, responsibilities, and benefits.
They cannot:
- Downgrade your role
- Delay your return
- Use restructuring as an excuse to eliminate your position
- Replace you permanently while you're on leave
If they do, legal remedies are available.
Fighting Back Against Pregnancy Discrimination
We help Brampton workers fight back when:
- Employers deny leave eligibility
- Medical notes or accommodation requests are ignored
- There’s pressure to work during leave
- Performance reviews suddenly become negative during pregnancy
- Maternity-related absences are used against the employee
Discrimination based on pregnancy or family status is a violation of your rights.
How Brampton Employment Lawyers Can Help
Our lawyers will:
- Review your employment contract and communication with HR
- Advise you on your rights and potential claims
- Negotiate with your employer for reinstatement or compensation
- File complaints with the Human Rights Tribunal or courts, if necessary
- Help you secure lost income, emotional damages, and more
In Brampton’s growing workforce—especially in sectors like retail, education, and healthcare—pregnancy discrimination remains far too common. If you’ve experienced it, we’re here to help.
Book your free consultation with Brampton Employment Lawyers today. Let’s ensure your maternity leave rights are protected now and in the future.
