Family & Medical Leave Act Lawyer in Metairie, LA

Denied time off for health or family reasons? We help workers across Southeast Louisiana protect their rights under the FMLA.

The Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain medical and family-related reasons. But many workers don't know their rights-or find themselves punished for trying to use them. At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent employees in Metairie, Jefferson Parish, and the Greater New Orleans area who have been denied leave, retaliated against, or wrongfully terminated for asserting their FMLA rights.

How FMLA Rights Are Often Violated

01.

Denied Leave Requests

Your employer may wrongly deny your FMLA request, claim you're ineligible, or ignore your documentation. We step in to enforce your legal right to leave.


Tip: You don't need to say "FMLA" in your request-just explain the reason.

If your leave was denied, we'll help you fight back.

02.

Retaliation & Harassment

After requesting or taking FMLA leave, some workers face write-ups, demotion, or mistreatment. That's illegal under federal law.

Tip: Keep records of any changes to your job after your leave request.

If you're being punished for taking leave, talk to us today.

03.

Wrongful Termination

Employers may fire workers during or after FMLA leave, citing unrelated reasons. We investigate to determine if the termination was truly lawful.

Tip: Timing matters-firing someone soon after FMLA leave often signals retaliation.

Fired after requesting leave? You may have a case.

What's Typically Covered Under the FMLA

Eligible employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for:

  • The birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child
  • Caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition
  • Your own serious health condition
  • Certain military family needs (deployment-related)

Leave may be taken all at once or intermittently depending on the situation.

Who's Covered by the FMLA

You're covered if:

  • You've worked at least 12 months and 1,250 hours for your employer
  • Your employer has at least 50 employees within 75 miles
  • Public agencies and schools are always covered, regardless of size.


We help determine your eligibility and fight to enforce your rights.

Many FMLA Cases Involve Overlapping Laws

FMLA violations may intersect with:

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protections
  • Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) violations
  • Workers' compensation leave misuse

We evaluate your case under all applicable state and federal laws to maximize your protection and potential recovery.


Basic Elements of a Valid FMLA Claim

To bring an FMLA case, we'll need to show:

  • You were eligible for leave
  • You properly requested or used the leave
  • Your employer interfered with your rights or retaliated
  • You suffered harm (termination, demotion, lost wages, etc.)

We gather communications, performance records, and medical documentation to build your case.


Damages in FMLA Violation Cases

Successful FMLA claims may result in:

  • Lost wages & benefits
  • Job reinstatement
  • Liquidated damages (double lost pay)
  • Legal fees and costs

We push for full compensation and justice for any mistreatment you've endured.

FAQ

  • Do I need to mention the FMLA by name when I ask for leave?

    No. You only need to provide enough information for your employer to recognize the request may qualify for FMLA.

  • What if I used PTO or sick time-can it still count as FMLA?

    Yes. Employers can (and usually must) designate PTO as FMLA leave if the reason qualifies.

  • Can I be fired while on leave?

    Only for reasons unrelated to your leave-like misconduct or company-wide layoffs. If the reason is pretextual, you may have a claim.

  • What if my boss says I'm not eligible?

    Many employers misclassify eligibility. We can help verify your status and challenge false denials.

  • What does it cost to hire your firm?

    FMLA claims are typically handled on a contingency or fee-shift basis-meaning you owe nothing unless we recover for you.

Protect Your Job & Your Family's Future

If your employer denied your FMLA leave, retaliated, or fired you for trying to take care of yourself or a loved one, you have rights. We can help you understand them-and enforce them.

Contact The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer today for a free consultation with a Metairie FMLA attorney.