California Family Medical Leave Act Attorneys in Van Nuys
Laurel Employment Law is a well-established employment law firm based in Van Nuys. We serve clients throughout the San Fernando Valley and all of California. We are dedicated to helping employees navigate the complex Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) process, including intermittent leave and leave to care for a family member. We also represent employees who have faced wrongful termination due to their use of FMLA.
Need to speak with an FMLA lawyer in California? Call our office at (310) 929-6371 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.
Understanding the California Family Medical Leave Act
California FMLA is similar to the federal FMLA. It allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in 12 months for certain qualifying reasons. To be eligible, you must work for an employer with at least 50 employees who work within a 75-mile radius of your worksite, and you must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months and at least 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to the start of your leave.
Qualifying Reasons for Taking California FMLA Leave
California FMLA, like the federal FMLA, allows you to take leave for several qualifying reasons.
Five-Star Client Reviews
Read about how our approach to employment law makes a difference in our clients' lives. To learn more or get started with a consultation, call us at (310) 929-6371 today.
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"Incredible Attorney"
Joshua White is a rising star in the legal profession. One of the sharpest minds in the field today.- Chris A. -
"Excellent Litigators"
Fast, aggressive, and strategic at every move. The other side was constantly off-balance and could never keep up.- Jenny F. -
"Tough, Smart, Strategic"
The exact right combination of tough, smart, and strategic. He knows how and when to push to get the best imaginable outcome.- Eric K. -
"They Got the Job Done!"
The firm was recommended to me after my company replaced me while on maternity leave. My lawyer went to work on my case right away and got the job done!- Jessica H. -
"They Kept Their Word"
They did what they said they'd do... whether a promise to me or a threat to the other side, they always backed up their words with action.- Jeremy S. -
"Run Exceptionally Well"
I loved the quality and proactivity of communication. They let me know what was going in my case and what would be happening next. I wish all businesses were run this well.- Lori M.
Can My Employer Deny My FMLA Leave?
Your employer may deny your FMLA leave in California if you are not an eligible employee, you have not worked for the employer for at least 12 months and at least 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to the start of your leave, you have already exhausted your FMLA leave for the 12-month period.
Your employer may also deny your leave if you are not requesting leave for a qualifying reason or you are not requesting leave to care for a qualifying family member. If your employer denies your leave, your employer must provide you with written notice explaining why your leave was denied. If your employer denies your leave, you may still be able to take leave under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
Can My Employer Fire Me for Taking FMLA Leave in California?
Your employer cannot fire you for taking FMLA leave in California. If you are an eligible employee and you have not already exhausted your FMLA leave for the 12-month period, your employer must provide you with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for a qualifying reason. Your employer must also continue to pay for your group health insurance during your leave. If you are taking leave to care for a covered service member, you may be eligible for up to 26 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period. If you are not an eligible employee, your employer may still be required to provide you with leave under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
