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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
If an employer has 50 or more workers, an employee may take up to 15 days off in one year. This time off is to help if the employee or their family member is dealing with abuse or domestic violence. The time off may be paid or unpaid, and the employer can ask for a note or proof about the reason for the time off.
MGL c. 149, § 150 Complaint for violation of certain sections; defenses; payment after complaint; assignments; loan of wages to employer; civil action
Discusses the options available to an employee when an employer does not follow the law. The Attorney General’s Office enforces this law.
Selected cases
Osborne-Trussell v. The Children's Hospital Corp., 488 Mass. 248 (2021)
The court ruled that a recently hired employee had been wrongfully fired in violation of MGL c.149, § 52E after letting the employer know, before her start date, that she that she might need to take time off to cooperate with law enforcement regarding her abuser violating a harassment order.
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. Includes link to filing a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office against an employer.
Print sources
Massachusetts employment Law, 6th ed., MCLE, 2024.
Section 19.9: Massachusetts Domestic Violence Leave Act.
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| Last updated: | July 8, 2025 |
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