During an interview

Let’s start from the very beginning: the interview! There are quite a few different things that a potential employer is not allowed to ask during an interview. One of those areas that is off limits is the subject that of marital and family status. This website tells a lot about what employers can’t ask and a way they may get that same information but asking in a legal way:

“2. What you can't ask: Do you have or plan to have children?

Clearly, the concern here is that family obligations will get in the way of work hours. Instead of asking about or making assumptions on family situations, get to the root of the issue by asking directly about the candidate's availability.

What to ask instead: Are you available to work overtime on occasion? Can you travel?

3. What you can't ask: Do you have kids?

This one is for positions in which the candidate may work with children. The added experience of children at home may be a bonus for you, but it's not an employer's place to ask about this. Rather, inquire about the candidate's experience, and they may volunteer this information to you anyway.

What to ask instead: What is your experience with "x" age group?

6. What you can't ask: If you get pregnant, will you continue to work, and will you come back after maternity leave?

Ultimately, you want to invest your time in a candidate that will stick around, but you can't ask a woman to share her pregnancy plans, or lack thereof, with you. Discuss her general plans for the future to gauge her commitment level, baby or not.

What to ask instead: What are your long-term career goals?”
(These and more can be found at http://www.focus.com/fyi/30-interview-questions-you-cant-ask-and-30-sneaky-legal-get/ )

The biggest thing when dealing with work is to protect yourself and your interests. You need to know your rights and know what to do if those rights are being infringed upon. The biggest thing is if you know what they are looking for you can find a way around it without giving information that may be discriminating. Be prepared and know your rights!