Sex Discrimination in the Workplace

Sex discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee differently because of their sex, gender, pregnancy status, or related characteristics. This kind of discrimination can affect hiring, promotions, pay, job assignments, discipline, or termination—and it is prohibited under Missouri, Kansas and federal law.

At Baldwin & Vernon Trial Attorneys, we represent employees in Kansas City and throughout Missouri and Kansas who have been harmed by sex-based discrimination in the workplace. Our practice is focused on employment litigation and real courtroom advocacy, because these cases often require holding employers accountable through formal legal action.

What Sex Discrimination Can Look Like

Sex discrimination is not always obvious. In many cases, it appears through patterns, policies, or decisions that consistently disadvantage one sex over another. Common examples include:

• Being passed over for promotions or raises

• Unequal pay for equal or substantially similar work

• Different discipline or performance scrutiny

• Denial of training or advancement opportunities

• Termination or demotion based on gender-related assumptions

• Discrimination related to pregnancy or related medical conditions

Employers often attempt to justify discriminatory conduct as “business decisions” or “performance-based,” but those explanations do not excuse unlawful treatment.

Pregnancy and Gender-Based Discrimination

Sex discrimination can also include unfair treatment related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This may involve:

• Forced leave or reduced hours

• Denial of reasonable accommodations

• Discipline or termination after disclosing pregnancy

• Refusal to reinstate an employee after leave

Employees have the right to be treated fairly before, during, and after pregnancy. Punishing someone for pregnancy or related needs is unlawful.

Sex Discrimination and Workplace Power

Sex discrimination is often tied to workplace power dynamics. Decisions about who advances, who is supported, and who is pushed out frequently reveal underlying bias.

These cases are rarely resolved by simply “raising concerns” internally. Employers often deny wrongdoing or shift blame, making litigation necessary to uncover the truth and enforce the law.

Missouri Sex Discrimination Protections

Missouri law, along with federal employment statutes, prohibits sex discrimination in the workplace. Employees who experience discrimination may have the right to pursue legal action to recover lost wages, benefits, emotional distress damages, and other relief.

Sex discrimination cases are highly fact-specific and often depend on documentation, timing, and credibility. Building a strong case requires careful investigation and trial-level preparation.

Why Trial Experience Matters

Employers do not easily admit to discrimination. These cases frequently hinge on evidence uncovered through litigation and the ability to present a clear, compelling narrative in court.

At Baldwin & Vernon Trial Attorneys, we prepare sex discrimination cases as if they will be tried. That preparation creates leverage and ensures our clients are taken seriously throughout the process.