Castronovo & McKinney, LLC provides legal representation for individuals in Norwood, NJ, who have experienced discrimination by employers under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA). These laws protect your right to take leave for family or medical reasons without risking your job.
Understanding FMLA and NJFLA is critical, especially for new parents needing maternity or paternity leave, employees undergoing medical treatments, or those caring for family members with serious health conditions. Our attorneys can guide you through the process and pursue legal action when necessary.
FMLA and NJFLA Protection
The FMLA allows up to 12 workweeks of leave within 12 months, while the NJFLA offers up to 12 workweeks within 24 months. Both laws ensure job security and health benefits during your leave, though they do not guarantee paid leave.
To qualify for FMLA, employees must have worked for at least 12 months, completed 1,250 hours in the past year, and be at a worksite with 50 or more employees within 75 miles. NJFLA eligibility requires 12 months of employment and 1,000 base hours in the prior 12 months, for employers with 50 or more employees worldwide.
Reasons for Family Medical Leave
Employees in Norwood, NJ, can take leave under FMLA for:
- The birth or care of a newborn child
- Bonding with an adopted child
- Caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition
- Managing your own serious health condition
- Addressing family-related military service issues
These provisions ensure job protection during critical life events.
Key Considerations
It’s important to understand the differences between FMLA and NJFLA. For example, FMLA does not allow leave for in-laws, siblings, or grandparents, while NJFLA does for a mother-in-law or father-in-law. Health conditions must meet specific criteria, such as requiring inpatient care or being related to pregnancy or chronic conditions.
Employers may request medical certification but cannot demand detailed medical records. Retaliation against employees who request leave under either act is illegal.
Facing Discrimination or Job Loss?
If your employer has threatened your job or benefits due to medical leave, it’s essential to take action. Employers must maintain your job and health benefits during leave. If you’ve faced unfair treatment, you may have grounds for legal action, potentially resulting in job reinstatement or compensation.
The attorneys at Castronovo & McKinney, LLC are experienced in FMLA and NJFLA claims and will help you navigate your case. While we prioritize resolving disputes through negotiation, we are prepared to take legal action when necessary.
Contact Our Legal Team
If you are dealing with denied leave or lost job benefits in Norwood, NJ, our legal team is here to help. We have a proven track record in FMLA and NJFLA cases, and we are committed to defending your rights.
Get in touch with us today for assistance. We work to achieve favorable outcomes and protect your rights.