Juggling work and family responsibilities can be challenging, especially when a loved one requires care or during the arrival of a new family member. Fortunately, federal and state laws, such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA), provide job-protected leave for eligible employees. At Castronovo & McKinney, we help employees understand their rights and protect their jobs while they prioritize their families.
What Is Family Leave?
Family leave laws allow employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons. Eligible employees can use this time for:
- Bonding with a newborn, adopted, or foster child.
- Caring for a seriously ill spouse, child, or parent.
- Attending to their own serious health condition.
- Addressing qualifying exigencies arising from a family member’s military service.
Under these laws, employees are entitled to return to their previous or an equivalent position upon completing their leave.
Eligibility Requirements for Family Leave
To qualify for family leave protections, employees must meet specific requirements, including:
- Working for a covered employer (e.g., public agencies, private companies with 50+ employees for FMLA).
- Having worked for the employer for at least 12 months.
- Completing a minimum of 1,250 hours of service in the past 12 months.
New Jersey’s Family Leave Act provides additional protections, including for smaller employers, ensuring more employees can access these benefits.
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Despite legal protections, employees sometimes face challenges such as denial of leave, retaliation, or termination for using their rights. Castronovo & McKinney offers comprehensive legal support, including:
- Evaluating your eligibility for family leave benefits.
- Challenging wrongful denials or retaliation by your employer.
- Advocating for your rights to secure job protection and compensation if violations occur.
Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you balance work and family without fear of unjust treatment.
Protect Your Family Leave Rights
If you believe your family leave rights have been violated, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a consultation. We’ll provide the guidance and advocacy you need to protect your job and care for your family.
About Castronovo & McKinney: Castronovo & McKinney is a leading employment law firm in New Jersey, specializing in family leave rights, workplace discrimination, and employee protections. With a proven track record of success, we are here to help you navigate complex legal challenges and achieve justice.
