On the other hand, if you are someone that the employer cannot live without, the new firm or corporation will gladly make provisions for your absence during your maternity leave rather than miss out on hiring you. Personally, I have represented a number of candidates who are pregnant and I have never had a problem with my clients not wanting to set up an interview with them. A top quality candidate is always in demand even if it means that she will be gone for a period of time. However, the issue of starting a job and then leaving for an extended leave eventually does come up and needs to be addressed by all concerned. By the way, it is not only female attorneys that are faced with issues of maternity leave.
Many firms now offer paternity leave.
Yes, I know that many of you are going to say that it is much easier for males than females in this type of situation and that, unfortunately, may very well be true. Nevertheless, it would be good to take note of the firms that offer paternity leave as these are the firms that are going to be most broad-minded about interviewing you during your pregnancy. I am certain that I will receive a number of e-mails from expectant mothers and fathers who have experienced discrimination in hiring during a pregnancy. I am not so na ve to think that this does not exist with certain employers. Even so, this should not stop you from attempting your job search at this time if you feel it is absolutely necessary.