Can I take FMLA leave to care for a family member if the family member is not the employee's parent, spouse, or child?

Yes, you can take FMLA leave to care for a family member in North Carolina if the family member is not your parent, spouse, or child. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave a year for qualifying reasons, such as for the care of an immediate family member with a serious health condition. Under FMLA, immediate family includes not only a parent, spouse, and child, but also any blood relative, adopted or foster child, or legal guardian. However, if the family member is not part of the employee’s immediate family, the employee may still be eligible for unpaid family leave as long as they are related to the employee by marriage, or a relationship that is equivalent to family. In North Carolina, eligible employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per 12-month period and can use this time to care for a family member. It is important to note that unpaid family leave is not guaranteed, and employers may deny it if they choose to. Therefore, if you are seeking to take FMLA leave to care for a family member in North Carolina who is not your parent, spouse, or child, it is important to consult with your employer to determine your eligibility before taking the leave.

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Can I take FMLA leave to care for a family member if the family member is not the employee's parent, spouse, or child?

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