No job after woman returns from six months maternity leave, suit claims

A woman claims her former employee refused to allow her return to work after she took about six months of maternity leave.

Jennifer Jones filed a lawsuit Nov. 25 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Trinity Services.

Trinity Services is a non profit organization helping people with disabilities.

Jones claims she began working at Trinity Services in Mascoutah in August 2008 and took maternity leave in mid-May when she was eight months pregnant.

"Trinity informed Plaintiff it would welcome her back when she was ready to return with the same or similar job at the same rate of pay and benefits," the suit states. "While on maternity leave Plaintiff was advised by agents of Trinity she could take as long as she needed."

But when Jones attempted to return to work on Nov. 13, Trinity terminated her, telling her it no longer needed her services, according to the complaint.

Because of Trinity's failure to keep its promises, Jones says she has been forced to seek additional work.

In the two-count suit, Jones is seeking a judgment of more than $100,000, plus other relief the court deems just.

Brian T. Kreisler of Becker, Paulson, Hoerner and Thompson in Belleville will be representing her.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-636.