Employees facing medical issues, pregnancy, or the need to care for a family member should never have to fear losing their jobs for taking time off. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) gives many Alabama workers the right to take protected, unpaid leave without being punished, written up, or terminated. Unfortunately, employers often violate these rights—sometimes without even understanding the law.
At Beckum Law, we represent employees throughout Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Huntsville, Montgomery, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, and across Alabama who were denied FMLA leave, retaliated against, or wrongfully terminated for taking or requesting legally protected medical leave.
With over 20 years of legal experience, attorney Beckum Law helps employees understand their rights, fight back against illegal treatment, and hold employers accountable. If you believe your employer violated the FMLA, we are here to help.
What Is the FMLA?
The Family and Medical Leave Act is a federal law that allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for certain medical and family-related reasons.
Common Reasons for FMLA Leave
- Pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care
- Prenatal and postpartum medical appointments
- A serious health condition requiring ongoing treatment
- Surgery or recovery from surgery
- Chronic health conditions (migraines, diabetes, asthma, etc.)
- Caring for a spouse, parent, or child with a serious condition
- Mental health conditions
- Military caregiver leave
FMLA Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Work for an employer with 50 or more employees
- Have worked at least 12 months (not necessarily consecutively)
- Have worked at least 1,250 hours in the past year
Signs of FMLA Violations
- Denial of medical leave
- Being required to work during leave
- Punishment under an attendance policy for protected leave
- Termination shortly after requesting FMLA
- Reduced hours or demotion after returning
- Employer refusing to accept valid medical certification
- Failure to notify you of FMLA eligibility
Types of FMLA Violations
FMLA Interference
Employers cannot prevent or discourage employees from taking leave they are legally entitled to.
FMLA Retaliation
Employers cannot punish you for requesting or using FMLA leave.
Wrongful Termination
Employees terminated after taking leave may have strong legal claims.
Pregnancy and FMLA Rights
Pregnant employees can take FMLA leave for:
- Prenatal care
- Bed rest or complications
- Childbirth and recovery
- Caring for a newborn
Intermittent Leave
Employees may take FMLA leave in smaller blocks of time for appointments or chronic conditions.
Compensation in FMLA Claims
- Back pay
- Front pay
- Liquidated damages
- Reinstatement
- Attorney’s fees
- Emotional distress damages through related claims
Why Choose Beckum Law?
- 20+ years of employment law experience
- Employee-only representation
- Deep knowledge of federal regulations
- Strategic, evidence-focused case building
- Compassionate, confidential communication
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reveal my medical diagnosis?
No.
Can I be fired for taking leave?
No—retaliation is illegal.
What if HR says I’m not eligible?
We can evaluate your actual eligibility.
What if my leave needs exceed 12 weeks?
ADA protections may apply.
Speak With an Alabama FMLA Lawyer Today
If you were denied leave or punished for taking time off, Beckum Law is ready to help.
Call (205) 588-0699 or submit our online form.
Alabama Rules of Professional Conduct Notice: No representation is made that the quality of legal services performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.