Navigating the complexities of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is crucial when you need to take medical leave for your family. Georgia Wage Lawyers are here to guide you through the process and ensure that you fully understand your rights.
Eligibility Criteria for FMLA Family Leave
FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for specified family-related reasons. Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step, and our experienced attorneys can assist in determining if you qualify for FMLA family leave.
An Employee is covered by the FMLA if they meet these criteria:
- They have worked for their employer for at least 12 months.
- They have worked at least 1,250 hours over the past 12 months.
- They work at a location where the company employs 50 or more employees within 75 miles.
What Family Members Are Covered Under FMLA?
Understanding which family members are covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is crucial for employees seeking to balance work responsibilities with caregiving duties. FMLA provides eligible employees with the right to take unpaid leave for specific family-related reasons, such as caring for the following members of your immediate family:
- Spouse: A person with whom the employee has entered into marriage as defined or recognized under any state’s law. It includes same-sex marriages, as well as common law marriages entered in a state that recognizes common law marriage (In Georgia, common-law marriages cannot be entered into on or after January 1, 1997. However, valid common-law marriages entered into prior to this date continue to be recognized.)
- Child (Son or Daughter): A biological, adopted, or foster child, a stepchild, a legal ward, or a child of a person standing in loco parentis, who is either younger than 18 years old, or 18 years or older but incapable of self-care because of a mental or physical disability.
- Parent: Biological parent or an individual who stands or stood in loco parentis to an employee when the employee was a son or daughter
Knowing the precise definition of covered family members ensures that employees can take the necessary time off without jeopardizing their job security. This clarity is particularly important when faced with challenging family situations, as it empowers individuals to make informed decisions about utilizing FMLA leave to care for their loved ones. Georgia Wage Lawyers can help employees navigate the complexities of FMLA, ensuring they fully understand which family members are covered and can take advantage of their rights under the law. Our lawyers will help you comprehend the definitions and nuances to ensure you can take the necessary time off to care for your loved ones.
FMLA Disputes
Requesting FMLA family leave involves following a specific process, including providing notice to your employer and obtaining medical certification. We will guide you through each step, ensuring compliance with FMLA regulations. Furthermore, FMLA disputes can arise. They can impact your ability to take family medical leave. Our attorneys are well-versed in handling disputes related to eligibility, certification challenges, intermittent leave, and more.
- Denial of Leave: If your request for FMLA leave to care for a family member is wrongfully denied, Georgia Wage Lawyers will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act are respected.
- Improper Calculation of Leave Entitlement: If there’s a dispute about the correct calculation of your FMLA leave entitlement, our legal team at Georgia Wage Lawyers will conduct a thorough review of your case and work to rectify any miscalculations to secure the full leave you’re entitled to.
- Retaliation for Taking Leave: If you face retaliation or adverse actions at work for taking FMLA leave, our attorneys will pursue legal action against such wrongful treatment, protecting your rights and seeking appropriate remedies.
- Failure to Reinstate: If your employer fails to reinstate you to your previous position or an equivalent one upon returning from FMLA leave, Georgia Wage Lawyers will aggressively advocate for your reinstatement and any lost wages or benefits.
- Interference with FMLA Rights: Should there be any interference with your FMLA rights, our legal team will investigate the matter, gather evidence, and pursue legal action to rectify the situation and secure the protections guaranteed under the FMLA.
Amount of Leave Available
One of the many questions we have dealt with is the amount of leave available under the FMLA. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows employers to choose one of four methods to determine the 12-month period during which eligible employees may take up to 12 weeks of qualifying leave:
- The calendar year: This is a 12-month period that runs from January 1 through December 31
- Any fixed 12-months: This could be a fiscal year (for example, October 1 through September 30), a year starting on an employee’s anniversary date (for example, September 22 through September 21), or a 12-month period required by state law.
- The 12-month period measured forward: This 12-month period is measured forward from the first date an employee takes FMLA leave. The next 12-month period would begin the first time FMLA leave is taken after completion of the prior 12-month period.
- A “rolling” 12-month period measured backward: This 12-month period is measured backward from the date an employee uses any FMLA leave.
What this means that the amount of time an employee is eligible for FMLA leave may be greater than you expect. We can help you determine how much leave you may have.
Why Hire Georgia Wage Lawyers?
When facing challenges or disputes related to FMLA family leave our skilled attorneys at Georgia Wage Lawyers provide expert guidance and representation. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the family medical leave you are entitled to.
Expert Guidance:
Our experienced attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of FMLA regulations. You can provide comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Personalized Approach:
We understand that each FMLA dispute is unique. Our team takes a personalized approach to every case. We carefully assessing the details and crafting a strategy that aligns with your needs and goals.
Aggressive Advocacy:
When it comes to FMLA disputes, having a dedicated advocate is essential. Georgia Wage Lawyers are known for their vigorous representation, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the dispute resolution process.
Efficient Resolution:
Our lawyers strive for efficient and effective resolution of FMLA disputes. We focus on achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Thus, minimizing stress and disruptions to your personal and professional life.
Transparent Communication:
At Georgia Wage Lawyers, transparent communication is a priority. We keep you informed at every step, explaining the law clearly and understandably. Thus, empowering you to make informed decisions about your case.
Skilled FMLA Lawyers
Hiring Georgia Wage Lawyers means enlisting a legal team dedicated to navigating the complexities of FMLA disputes on your behalf, advocating for your rights, and securing the best possible resolution.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you have questions about FMLA family leave or are facing disputes, schedule a consultation with Georgia Wage Lawyers today. We’ll provide personalized advice based on your unique situation. Don’t let disputes or challenges hinder your ability to care for your family. Contact Georgia Wage Lawyers to protect your FMLA family leave rights and ensure you can be there for your loved ones when they need you most.