I need to take a leave of absence...what can I do?
1. There are at least four laws that might give you the right to take a leave of absence (but, generally speaking, none of these laws require the leave to be paid). Each of these laws has specific eligibility criteria, so be sure to consider whether they apply to you and your employer. For example, some laws only cover employers who have a certain number of employees.
2. If you need to take a leave for the birth or adoption of a child, because of your serious medical condition, or because of the serious medical condition of a family member, you might be entitled to a leave under the Family & Medical Leave Act. For more information, call the Boston office of the U.S. Department of Labor (617-624-6700).
3. If you need to take leave to participate in school activities, or to accompany your children or elderly relatives to medical, dental, or other specialists, you might be entitled to a leave under the Massachusetts Small Necessities Leave Act.
4. If you need to take a leave for the birth or adoption of a child, you might be entitled to leave under the Massachusetts Maternity Leave Act.
5. If you have a disability, you might be entitled to a leave as a form of "reasonable accommodation." This is a complicated question. For more information, click here.
6. If none of these laws apply to you, you can still ask your employer for time off. Many employers are willing to make accommodations, even when they're not legally required to do so.
7. If you want to consult with a private attorney, call the Boston Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (617-742-0625) or the Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (866-MASS-LRS).
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