We have a well-earned reputation for providing representation to employees experiencing maternity or paternity discrimination at their place of work. We regularly act on behalf of employees who have found themselves receiving unfair treatment after informing their employer that they are pregnant. We can provide you with comprehensive legal support, ensuring that you are fully aware of your rights, as well as your employer's responsibilities.

We often handle employment claims on a no win no fee – if your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be charged for our services. If you are experiencing problems at work as a result of your pregnancy speak to one of our solicitors immediately to discuss your case.

How Long Am I Entitled to Take off Work After Having A Baby?

All pregnant employees are entitled to 52 weeks' maternity leave, regardless of how long you have been employed. It is a right available from day one of the employment. From the point at which you give birth, you are entitled your first 26 weeks of maternity leave. This is called Ordinary Maternity Leave (OML). You can start your OML on the 11th week before your baby is due. If you return to work after this period, you should be reinstated to the position you held before stopping work. Your employer cannot make you redundant based on your taking OML.

After the OML period, there is a further 26-week period of maternity leave called Additional Maternity Leave (AML). If you decide to return to work after OML but during AML, and if it is not reasonably practical for you to go back to your previous position, your employer must offer you a suitable alternative.

What Pay Am I Entitled to When on Maternity Leave?

Statutory Maternity Pay is the legal minimum your employer normally has to pay you while you’re on maternity leave.

You’ll get Statutory Maternity Pay if you:

• earn at least £116 a week on average.
• have worked for your employer for 26 weeks when you reach the 15th week before your due date.

You are entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay from your employer for the first 39 weeks of your maternity leave. You should receive 90% of your average pay for the first six weeks. After that, for the remaining 33 weeks, you are entitled to the basic SMP rate of £148.68 or 90% of your average salary if that is lower.

Contact Our Employment Lawyers

We appreciate that raising complaints about the treatment you have received at work can be stressful and worrying, but our friendly and sympathetic solicitors will support you at every stage. Our maternity leave and pay lawyers will take the time to meet with you and address any questions or concerns you may have, explaining everything clearly and in plain English.

Speak to a member of our team today by calling 0207 458 4633 or complete our online enquiry form.