Many working people in Rhode Island will eventually have to deal with a personal emergency that requires them to take some time off of work. Many people may need more than just a day or two. If you work for a Rhode Island employer with 50 or more employees, you are likely covered by the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
The FMLA allows you to take up to 12 weeks of leave to take care of yourself or a relative in certain circumstances, if you meet certain criteria. Under Rhode Island law, you may take up to 13 weeks of leave. Some of these circumstances include the birth of a child, caring for a parent or spouse with a serious illness or dealing with a severe mental or physical condition of your own.
While it seems simple, some employers knowingly or unknowingly violate employee rights by denying the FMLA leave they are entitled to or wrongfully firing an employee for taking their leave. Some employers allow their employees to take leave only to retaliate or discriminate against them once they come back to work. If this has happened to you, you should know that this is illegal and a violation of the FMLA. At our law firm, we attempt to help our clients figure out what to do next. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your claim and if we determine that you are eligible for FMLA and that your rights have been violated, we can move forward with your case against your employer.
If your lawsuit is successful, your position can be reinstated or you may receive damages from your employer. Contact our attorneys today to find out how we can help with your FMLA claim.