FMLA eligibility is considered when the employee requests a leave to deal with familial responsibilities. A certain criteria has to be met in order to be eligible for a family or medical leave.
As per the FMLA, if you are a new or an expecting parent, you may be eligible for a maternity or paternity leave to balance your personal and medical commitments without giving up your job security. As an Employee, you can also request a medical leave to take care of yourself, your disabled child, spouse, or a family member with a severe ailment.
Discrimination in the case of giving a family leave can be penalized under the employment law. As an expecting mother, if you require time for preparing for the newborn, you might be exempted from doing essential job functions. If you feel like you are being discriminated because of your pregnancy, you should look into filing a complaint against the employer. Pregnancy discrimination can have serious consequences for the employer or company.
Employees undergoing medical or familial responsibilities may take advantage of this ruling. In case of discrimination, it is advisable to seek guidance from an attorney regarding your rights. As an employee, you have certain rights that must be exercised by your employer under federal and state law.
If you think you are being subjected to discrimination for taking a family leave, you should consider hiring a skilled attorney. An attorney will help you know more about your rights in the workplace. Violation of an employment law is a serious offense and should be tackled proactively.