There are several federal and state employment laws that impact your rights to take time off, including medical leave or to care for a family member or to support a member of the military. Under the Family & Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”), you can take up to 12 weeks for your own medical condition, to care for a new child, or to care and support certain family members (or 26 weeks to care for a covered servicemember with a serious injury or illness). This leave is protected by federal law and an employer (with 50 or more employees in a 75-mile radius) cannot interfere with your use of this leave or retaliate against you for taking this leave. You may also be entitled to medical leave as a reasonable accommodation for your own disability. Navigating requests for leaves can be challenging, especially if you are dealing with your own health issue. Additionally, knowing your rights can be critical in having your leave request granted and preserving your employment rights.