In Indiana, family values are strong. While a good work ethic is important and being a diligent and reliable employee is always beneficial, sometimes family has to come first. Whether a child or spouse has fallen ill, or you are pregnant and need to take time off to welcome your new baby into your household, you hope that your employer will understand the necessity of your absence. However, in an employment-at-will state like Indiana, the concern is that you may simply be dismissed outright.
Fortunately, you might be covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act. This act is in place to help ensure that workers are able to take the time they need to care for their families without fear of losing their jobs in the meantime. Under the FMLA, you may be entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a member of your immediate family.
If at least 50 people work for your employer and you have been in the job for at least 12 months, you might be covered by the FMLA. You will also need to have worked a minimum of 1,250 hours in the space of those 12 months. This averages out to approximately 25 hours each week if you worked for 50 weeks of the year.
Our page on the FMLA has further information about your rights. If you think you may be entitled to leave, an attorney may also be able to advise you. Furthermore, if you feel that your employee rights have been breached, you may be able to challenge those responsible and receive the fair treatment you deserve.
