Legal Question in Employment Law in District of Columbia
Re:WC/FMLA/Employment Discrimination
I have used 4.5 weeks of FMLA for
my diagnosis of Carpel and Cubital
Tunnel Syndrome and my surgery
date is scheduled in 3.5 weeks. The
Dr said I can return to work with
some restrictions b/c of my injury.
However, my HR has refused my
return to work b/c I have some
restrictions even though I explained
the restrictions to my director. Also
they denied the WC claim that was
filed so that I'm using my health ins
thru work to pay. Is it lawful for
them to deny the WC claim for an
injury I developed at work over
time? Does my employer have the
right to refuse me returning to work
b/c of minimal restrictions? Are they
allowed to make me stay at home so
that my FMLA is used up by the time
I'm recovering from surgery? Is it
true that my job will no longer be
protected as a pharmacist and I'll
have to reapply b/c I've worked for
this hospoital for 2yrs and 7mths?
What can I do?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Re:WC/FMLA/Employment Discrimination
This all seems very suspect. Did you file a worker's comp claim (and, if not, is it still timely)? Both MD and DC (jurisdiction was not clear in your question) recognize ergonomic injuries as compensable. Our firm handles WC claims in both jurisdictions. We also handle employment discrimination cases. It is true that, once you "max out" your FMLA leave, they are no longer obligated to hold your job. However, if you are terminated because you filed a WC claim, you would have a separate reprisal/wrongful discharge case. We can explain more in the initial consultation. Contact us through www.employment-law.biz. Thank you and good luck.