Family Medical Leave Act
The family medical leave act provides a select group of employees with an entitlement of 12 weeks’ worth of unpaid, job-protected leave per annum. It would be mandatory for these employees to maintain their group health benefits during this period.
What Is the New Jersey Family Leave Act?
In New Jersey, some employees may utilize the New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) in conjunction with the FMLA. Businesses with 50 or more employees are allowed to use the NJFLA in addition to the FMLA for a total of 24 weeks of qualified unpaid leave. The employer is required to allow the employee to resume their previous job or one with similar duties and compensation.
The NJLA offers a flexible solution for employees who need to care for an ill newborn, spouse, child, newly adopted child, or parent. It provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave over 24 months, allowing employees to take time off when they need it most. Eligibility is similar to the FMLA, requiring employees to have worked for at least 12 months for the covered employer but only needing to work 1,000 hours during that time.
Understanding The Family Medical Leave Act
The family medical leave act was put in place in order to encourage work-life balance in different work environments. Employees are given an opportunity to take unpaid family leave for specific medical or family reasons. The act also aims to fulfill the real interests of companies in promoting equal employment opportunities for both men and women. Employees who intend to apply for family leave are required to submit official documentation such as birth certificates, adoption letters, doctor’s letters, and others depending on the type of family or medical reasons provided.
Why Should You Hire Attorneys For Family Medical Leave Act Claims?
In a usual scenario, employees would not need to seek legal advice regarding the family medical leave act. However, an attorney would be able to help in a situation whereby an employee is deprived of the family leave that he/she has initially been entitled to. The same applies to employers who can simply follow the clauses stated in an employment contract. Nevertheless, an attorney can assist an employee applying for family leave to ensure there are no complications or any unwarranted denials.