SFV Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Lawyers
Protecting Your Federal Employment Rights in the San Fernando Valley
The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal statute that grants employees the right to take a temporary leave of absence for medical reasons or military deployment. California also has the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), which offers similar protections. The FMLA prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who lawfully exercise these rights.
If you believe your workplace rights under the FMLA have been violated, contact an employment law attorney at K2 Employment Law. Our law firm serves employees across the San Fernando Valley and surrounding communities, guiding workers through issues involving their legal rights under both state and federal law. Our experience representing both employers and employees gives us an informed perspective, allowing us to develop practical solutions for our clients. Our firm now handles cases solely on behalf of employees.
Contact us at (800) 590-7674 for a free, initial case evaluation with a Family & Medical Leave Act attorney in the San Fernando Valley.
Your Rights under the FMLA
The FMLA applies to companies with more than 50 employees within a 75-mile radius. Under this law, qualifying employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave with continued benefits during 12 months, provided certain requirements are met.
Those circumstances include:
- Becoming seriously ill
- Needing to care for an immediate family member (spouse, child, or parent) who has become seriously ill or injured
- Developing complications related to pregnancy
- Preparing for and giving birth
- Adopting a child
- Fostering a child
Your employer must authorize a leave of absence for these reasons and allow you to return to your original or an equivalent position once your leave ends. To qualify, you must have worked at your job for at least 12 months and logged at least 1,250 work hours during that period. In some cases, your employer may require a medical certification to support your request for leave.
In Northridge and the broader San Fernando Valley, employees may face unique scenarios working at institutions such as California State University, Northridge (CSUN), hospitals, or regional businesses. FMLA regulations apply to public and private employers and local schools in the area. Understanding both state and federal requirements ensures you take full advantage of your lawful entitlements.
If your FMLA rights have been denied, K2 Employment Law offers legal support in administrative or legal proceedings. Our San Fernando Valley FMLA lawyers are prepared to assist you with your case.
Understanding the FMLA Process: What to Expect
Navigating the Family & Medical Leave Act can feel overwhelming, especially during medical or family emergencies. At K2 Employment Law, we aim to give our clients clear information about the FMLA process so they can make informed decisions and reduce their stress.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of the FMLA process:
- Eligibility determination: Before applying for FMLA leave, confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements regarding employment duration and hours worked.
- Notification to employer: Inform your employer about your leave needs as soon as possible, ideally giving at least 30 days' notice for planned events. Clear details help prevent delays or misunderstandings.
- Medical certification: Many FMLA claims require documentation from your medical provider. Our attorneys can clarify what your employer will expect.
- Employer response: Your employer must respond to your leave request—usually within five business days—either approving your request or asking for more information.
- Taking leave: If your request is approved, you can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave within 12 months. During this time, your job remains protected and your health benefits continue.
- Returning to work: Upon returning, you are entitled to resume your original job or a similar one, with the same pay and benefits.
San Fernando Valley employers may have their own notification policies or require specific HR paperwork. Some businesses and public agencies in Los Angeles use extra forms to process these types of absences. Staying on top of each requirement helps you protect your rights during every stage of your FMLA request.
With support from a Northridge FMLA lawyer at K2 Employment Law, you can address compliance questions with greater confidence. Contact us for personalized guidance based on your situation.
Common FMLA Violations and What Employees Can Do
Some employers try to avoid granting FMLA leave or create obstacles for eligible workers in the process. Examples of FMLA violations in Northridge and the San Fernando Valley include wrongful denial of leave requests, unreasonable delays, retaliation such as reassignments or terminations, or pressuring employees not to take leave. Public and private employers throughout Los Angeles County must respect the rights established by federal and California law, regardless of industry or company size.
When you encounter resistance or questionable action from your employer, keep detailed records of all communications and documents related to your leave. Note the dates, content of conversations, and any written responses, whether you work at a large university or a small business. This documentation helps clarify eligibility and demonstrates your intentions and efforts. An FMLA attorney in Northridge from our firm relies on this thorough recordkeeping to help employees move forward with informed, strategic action tailored to the situation at hand.
FMLA and California Family Rights Act: Key Differences for Local Employees
Employees in Northridge and the surrounding region benefit from both the FMLA and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). While the FMLA provides leave for specific medical and family reasons, the CFRA may cover additional relationships not recognized under the FMLA, such as adult children or siblings. California state law sometimes changes more rapidly than federal policy, making it crucial for area workers and employers to stay informed and current.
If you work for a local hospital, school, or a growing business in the San Fernando Valley, you may qualify for leave under both laws. However, the laws differ on leave calculation, required paperwork, and qualifying family members. Reviewing your particular circumstances with a knowledgeable legal advocate helps you understand your rights and the best way to proceed. Our team draws on long-standing legal experience, along with background from the employer's perspective, to offer practical guidance to employees from Northridge and across the region. Speak with a trusted FMLA lawyer in San Fernando as soon as possible.
Connect with an experienced Northfridge FMLA lawyer without delay. Submit an online form to get started.
FAQs
Who is eligible for FMLA leave in California?
Most employees qualify for FMLA leave if their employer has at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius, they have worked for their employer for at least 12 months, and they have logged at least 1,250 hours during the previous year. Local schools, hospitals, and public agencies may have additional requirements or policies that affect eligibility.
Can my employer ask for medical documentation for FMLA leave?
Yes, employers may request a medical certification to confirm a serious health condition or the need for family leave. Employers must keep any medical information confidential and use it only to verify eligibility for protected leave.
Does taking FMLA leave affect my job status or benefits?
FMLA leave entitles you to return to your same or an equivalent position with the same pay and benefits when you return to work. Your health insurance coverage also continues on the same terms as if you remained actively employed, but you must keep paying your usual share of premiums.
How Are My Health Benefits Affected When I'm on FMLA Leave?
Your employer must continue your health benefits on the same terms during FMLA leave as if you were still actively working. This means your coverage continues under your existing policy, and you need to continue making premium contributions on time.
Workers in Northridge and nearby communities may face different employer plans based on company size and industry. Some San Fernando Valley employers offer extra resources or alternative benefit options during time away from work. Review your company's policies so you can avoid disruptions to your health insurance during leave. If you have questions about how your employer should handle your benefits, our team can help you understand your options under federal and California law.
Contact Our San Fernando Valley FMLA Lawyers
At K2 Employment Law, we value balanced and fair workplaces. Our goal is to help both employers and employees fully understand their rights and duties under the FMLA. With many years focused on employment law, our team has helped people in Northridge, throughout the San Fernando Valley, and beyond.
- Deep experience: Our team includes FMLA attorneys who have handled a wide range of employment law matters, giving our clients access to reliable legal guidance.
- Client-centered guidance: We adjust our approach based on each client’s specific circumstances. Whether you seek advice for compliance or need help resolving an FMLA dispute, we listen to your goals.
- Proactive solutions: At K2 Employment Law, we work to identify potential issues early and resolve them, which gives clients clarity and peace of mind.
- Clear communication: We keep our clients updated at every stage and answer questions promptly so you feel supported in decision-making.
With decades of real-world local experience, our legal practice draws on Northridge and broader San Fernando Valley employment law trends. Our knowledge of regional employers—including school districts, medical facilities, and businesses—helps us guide workers and families in Northridge, Encino, Woodland Hills, and other nearby communities.
If you need advice on FMLA matters, reach out to K2 Employment Law. Contact our Northridge FMLA attorney to schedule a consultation and find a path forward with trusted legal support.
Get the legal assistance you need by contacting an employment lawyer at (800) 590-7674.
