Legal News

A federal judge in Manhattan has ruled that DLA Piper must face claims of pregnancy and maternity leave discrimination brought by former senior associate Anisha Mehta, finding that evidence in the record raised “suspect circumstances” surrounding her termination. The decision, issued by U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres, denied DLA Piper’s motion for summary judgment on several key counts, allowing the case to proceed to trial, according to Law.com and Reuters. (Law.com; Reuters)

Mehta, represented by Wigdor LLP, alleges that she was terminated just two months after notifying firm leadership of her pregnancy and shortly before annual bonuses were distributed. The court noted that DLA Piper’s stated justification—performance concerns—appeared “in tension” with other evidence in the record, including Mehta’s prior positive reviews and billable work levels. (Wigdor Law)

Judge Torres ruled that Mehta had provided sufficient evidence for a jury to determine whether the firm’s stated reasons were pretextual and whether discrimination played a role. Her claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the New York State Human Rights Law, the New York City Human Rights Law, and portions of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) were allowed to proceed, while certain retaliation claims were dismissed. (Reuters)

For law firms and employers, the case underscores the heightened scrutiny courts apply to terminations occurring near the time of pregnancy disclosures or protected leave. It serves as a reminder to maintain consistent documentation, objective performance metrics, and transparent review processes to mitigate discrimination risk.

Outside Legal Counsel LLP advises employees and employers on discrimination, leave compliance, and affirmative litigation claim and defense strategies. Contact us for guidance.

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