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Can I take time off from work to deal with domestic violence?, Mass. Legal Help, 2023.
Answers common questions relating to work leave due to abuse, abusive behavior, and domestic violence.
Massachusetts law
MGL c. 149, § 52E Leave from work when employee or family member of employee has been victim of abusive behavior
Employers with 50 or more employees shall allow an employee to take up to 15 days of leave in any 12 month period to deal with abusive behavior or domestic violence perpetuated against them or a family member. Employers may provide unpaid or paid using employee sick time and may ask for notice or documentation regarding this leave.
MGL c. 149, § 150 Complaint for violation of certain sections; defenses; payment after complaint; assignments; loan of wages to employer; civil action
Discusses the damages and statute of limitations for employees who are not able to take leave under MGL c. 149, § 52E.
Selected cases
Osborne-Trussell v. The Children's Hospital Corp., 488 Mass. 248 (2021)
Court ruled that a defendant who had been hired by the plaintiff was terminated illegally after the defendant informed her employer that she might need to leave to cooperate with law enforcement regarding her abuser violating a harassment order (MGL c.149, § 52E).
Web sources
Attorney General's advisory concerning M.G.L. c. 149, § 52E employment leave for victims and family members of abuse, Mass. Attorney General, 2018.
Provides an explanation of the law granting leave for victims of domestic violence, with guidance for employers.
Breaks and time off: Domestic violence and abusive situation leave, Attorney General's Fair Labor Division.
Explains when an employee can use domestic violence and abusive situation leave.
Print sources
Massachusetts employment Law, 6th ed., MCLE, 2024.
Section 19.9: Massachusetts Domestic Violence Leave Act.
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| Last updated: | March 7, 2025 |
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