Jacksonville Family Medical Leave Act Attorneys

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides essential protections for Jacksonville employees who need time off for family or medical reasons. However, understanding and asserting these rights can be challenging. Our experienced Jacksonville wrongful termination attorneys specialize in employment law, ensuring you’re fully protected under FMLA and other relevant laws. We’re here to help.

Award Winning FMLA Lawyers in Jacksonville

What Does the FMLA Protect?

The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) grants eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical situations. During this leave, your employer must continue to provide group health benefits as if you were still working. You are also entitled to return to the same or an equivalent position upon completing your leave. FMLA leave can be used continuously or intermittently, depending on the circumstances.

Eligible employees may use FMLA leave for the following reasons:

  • Birth and bonding with a newborn child.
  • Adoption or foster care placement of a child.
  • Caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a severe health condition.
  • Managing your serious health condition that prevents you from performing your job.
  • I am handling qualifying difficulties related to a family member’s active-duty service in the National Guard, Reserves, or Armed Forces.
  • I am caring for a service member or veteran with a severe injury or illness (up to 26 weeks of leave).

Does the FMLA Apply to All Employers?

No, not all employers are required to comply with the FMLA. The FMLA applies to:

  • Private-sector employers with 50 or more employees.
  • Public agencies, including local, state, and federal government employers.
  • Regardless of the number of employees, local educational agencies, such as public and private elementary and secondary schools.

You may be eligible for FMLA protections if your employer falls under any of these categories. For specific questions about your situation, contact us at (877) 858-6868 or coordinator@caklegal.com.

Who is Eligible for FMLA Leave?

To qualify for FMLA protections, employees must meet the following criteria:

  • Work for a covered employer.
  • Have worked for the employer for at least 12 months.
  • Have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 months preceding the start of the leave.
  • Work at a location where the employer has 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius.

Particular eligibility criteria may apply to airline flight attendants and crew members. If you need more clarification about your eligibility, consult our experienced attorneys. We’re available at (877) 858-6868 or coordinator@caklegal.com.

Jacksonville FMLA Attorneys
Jacksonville FMLA Attorneys

State and Local Laws Protecting Employee Leave in Jacksonville

While the FMLA provides essential protections, Jacksonville, Florida, has additional local and state laws that address specific aspects of employee leave policies:

  • Florida Statutes § 110.122: Requires state agencies to provide up to 12 weeks of family leave for specific family and medical reasons, similar to the federal FMLA.
  • Florida Statutes § 741.313: Allows employees to take up to three days of leave per year to address issues related to domestic violence, stalking, or sexual violence. This leave can be taken in addition to FMLA leave.
  • Florida Statutes § 760.10: Prohibits discrimination against pregnant women in employment, which may intersect with FMLA leave for pregnancy-related conditions.

City and county employees in Jacksonville may also be subject to additional leave policies through employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements. It is essential to review specific employment agreements and local guidelines for any additional leave entitlements.

How is the FMLA Enforced in Jacksonville?

In Jacksonville, the FMLA is enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD). Employees can file a complaint with the WHD if they believe their FMLA rights have been violated. However, consulting with an experienced employment attorney before filing a claim is highly recommended to ensure your case is handled correctly.

At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we can help guide you through the process, including filing a civil lawsuit if necessary. Successful claims may result in compensation for back pay, front pay, liquidated damages, and attorney’s fees.

The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Attorneys in Jacksonville

Cantrell Schuette, P.A. is your trusted legal advocate for navigating the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) complexities in Jacksonville, Florida. We understand the importance of protecting your right to take leave for personal or family medical reasons without fear of losing your job. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to ensuring you receive the protections granted by the FMLA and will advocate on your behalf if your rights have been violated.

If you face challenges obtaining leave for family or medical reasons or believe your FMLA rights have been denied or retaliated against, contact us for a consultation. You can reach us at (877) 858-6868 or coordinator@caklegal.com.

Why Choose Cantrell Schuette, P.A.?

Our experienced employment attorneys specialize in FMLA-related cases and understand the complexities involved. Here’s why you should choose Cantrell Schuette, P.A. for your FMLA case:

  • Expertise in FMLA Law: We deeply understand FMLA regulations and how they apply to employees in Jacksonville.
  • Personalized Legal Strategies: Every situation is unique, and we craft customized legal strategies based on your individual needs.
  • Protection from Retaliation: We stand by your side to protect you from any form of employer retaliation.
  • Compassionate Support: We understand that family medical issues can be emotionally challenging, and we provide compassionate legal guidance throughout the process.
  • Local Knowledge: As Jacksonville attorneys, we comprehensively understand local laws and how they interact with federal regulations.

For a consultation with Cantrell Schuette, P.A., call (877) 858-6868 or email coordinator@caklegal.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What qualifies as a “serious health condition” under the FMLA?

A severe health condition refers to any illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that requires inpatient care or ongoing medical treatment.

You can take FMLA leave intermittently or on a reduced schedule if medically necessary. You must provide sufficient medical certification for intermittent leave.

Contact an employment attorney as soon as possible to review your case and explore your legal options. We can guide you through the following steps and help protect your rights.

No, retaliation for requesting or taking FMLA leave is illegal. If you face retaliation, you may have grounds for legal action. Our experienced attorneys can help you file a claim and seek justice.

Please notify your employer at least 30 days in advance. If the need for leave is unexpected, inform them immediately and provide appropriate documentation.

Contact Cantrell Schuette, P.A. at (877) 858-6868 or coordinator@caklegal.com for personalized legal advice or to discuss your case in detail. We’re here to help!

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