Life doesn’t stop when work gets busy. Sometimes, family needs must take priority—and New Jersey law protects your right to be there for loved ones. If you’re working in Atlantic County, the New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) offers essential protections that allow you to take time off from work without risking your job. Here’s what every employee should know about family leave in New Jersey.
What Is the NJ Family Leave Act?
The NJFLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of job-protected, unpaid leave in a 24-month period to care for a family member with a serious health condition or to bond with a newborn or newly adopted child. Unlike the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), NJFLA does not apply to leave for your own medical condition—it is strictly for family caregiving responsibilities.
Who Is Eligible for NJFLA Leave?
You may qualify for NJFLA leave if:
- You’ve worked for your employer for at least 12 months
- You’ve worked at least 1,000 hours in the last 12 months
- Your employer has 30 or more employees worldwide
Both public and private sector employees are covered, and part-time workers may qualify if they meet the hour requirement.
Permissible Reasons for Leave
- Bonding with a newborn or adopted child
- Caring for a spouse, child, parent, or parent-in-law with a serious health condition
- Providing care during a public health emergency affecting a family member
What Are Your Rights Under the NJFLA?
During your leave, your job is protected. When you return, your employer must reinstate you to the same or an equivalent position. Your group health benefits must also continue during your leave period, provided you normally receive such benefits.
What About Paid Leave?
The NJFLA itself is unpaid, but you may qualify for New Jersey Family Leave Insurance (FLI), which provides partial wage replacement during your leave. This benefit is managed by the NJ Department of Labor and is funded through payroll deductions.
Common Employer Violations
- Denying eligible employees their right to leave
- Failing to reinstate the employee to the same or similar position
- Retaliating against employees for requesting or taking leave
Legal Remedies If Your Rights Are Violated
If your employer violates the NJFLA, you may be entitled to:
- Reinstatement to your job
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits
- Damages for emotional distress
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys help workers in Atlantic County assert their rights under the NJ Family Leave Act. Whether you’re planning leave or were denied your rightful time off, their experienced legal team will guide you through the process and fight for the protections you deserve. If necessary, they’ll take your case to court and pursue full compensation.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
Don’t let an employer deny your right to care for your family. Contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation and get the legal support you need to take the time you deserve.
New Jersey Office
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924
New York Office
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781
