Ohio Medical Leave FMLA

Our Law Firm Handles Medical Leave and FMLA Claims

Ohio medical leave attorneys who work for you

"My right were defended. I would highly recommend them."

– Vince C.

Navigating medical leave and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) can be overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with a serious health issue or caring for a loved one. Whether you’re based in Cleveland, Columbus, North Canton, or anywhere in Ohio, understanding your rights is crucial to protecting your job and your family’s wellbeing. If your employer is making it difficult to take the leave you need, or you have questions about how FMLA works in Ohio—including intermittent FMLA options—our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about your options for medical leave or FMLA legal representation.

What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

The FMLA is a federal law that gives eligible Ohio employees the right to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave within a 12-month period for qualifying family and medical reasons. These reasons can include:

• Recovery from your own serious health condition
• The birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child
• Caring for a spouse, parent, or child with a serious health condition
• Certain situations relating to a family member’s military service

Key Points:

• Your employer must generally have at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius.
• You must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and have at least 1,250 hours of service in the past 12 months.
• During FMLA leave, your employer must maintain your group health benefits.

How Does FMLA Work in Ohio?

FMLA rights and requirements are the same across the state, whether you’re working in Columbus, Cleveland, North Canton, or elsewhere in Ohio. However, many employees have questions about the specifics, including intermittent leave.

Intermittent FMLA in Ohio:

• You may be eligible to take FMLA leave in smaller increments rather than one continuous block. This is called intermittent FMLA and is especially common for ongoing treatments or chronic health conditions.
• Examples: Attending regular medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or taking time off periodically to care for a family member.
• Your employer can require you to schedule foreseeable leave in a way that minimizes disruption to business operations.
• Documentation from a healthcare provider is typically required.

Who is Covered by FMLA?

• You work for a covered employer (private-sector employers with 50+ employees, public agencies, or schools).
• You’ve been employed for at least 12 months.
• You’ve worked 1,250 hours in the previous year.
• You work at a location with at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius.

Not all situations or all workers are covered. Some leave may also be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or state law. If you’re unsure, reach out to an Ohio FMLA attorney for a personalized assessment.

Common FMLA Violations in Ohio Workplaces

Unfortunately, not all Ohio employers comply with FMLA requirements. You may have a legal claim if any of the following has happened to you:

• You were fired, threatened, or demoted for requesting or taking medical leave
• You faced discipline or retaliation for attending medical appointments or treatments
• Your employer refused leave for childbirth, adoption, or to care for a family member
• You were not reinstated to your job or a similar position upon return
• You experienced a hostile work environment after requesting or taking leave

Protect your rights—consult with an experienced Ohio FMLA attorney if you’re facing these issues.

What Makes Our Ohio FMLA Attorneys Different?

Our firm stands out for its deep expertise in FMLA and medical leave law, successfully representing employees across Ohio—including Cleveland, Columbus, and North Canton. We’re thorough, strategic, and passionate about defending workers’ rights.

• Decades of combined experience in Ohio labor law
• Aggressive advocates in and out of court
• Personalized legal strategies for each client

Expanded Content: Additional FMLA Resources for Ohio Workers

Can I Take FMLA for Mental Health or Chronic Conditions?

Yes. FMLA covers mental health and chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment or result in periods of incapacity, such as depression, anxiety, diabetes, or cancer.

FMLA vs. ADA Leave in Ohio

FMLA and ADA can sometimes overlap. If you have a disability covered under the ADA, you may be entitled to additional leave or workplace accommodations even after FMLA leave is exhausted.

Steps to Take if Your FMLA Rights are Violated

1. Document everything: Keep records of requests, communications, and any adverse actions.
2. Consult an employment attorney: The sooner you get legal advice, the better your protection.
3. File a complaint: You can file with the Department of Labor or pursue a lawsuit.

FMLA for Ohio’s Working Parents

If you’re expecting a child or adopting, FMLA offers critical protection. You can take time off for prenatal care, recovery from childbirth, and bonding with your new child. Intermittent leave may also apply for ongoing medical needs.

FMLA and COVID-19

FMLA generally covers absences due to serious health conditions related to COVID-19. However, other laws may offer additional paid leave options. If you were denied leave during the pandemic, speak to an attorney to discuss your options.