Domestic violence is mentally straining as well as physically hurtful. Victims not only have to deal with the physical weight but may also have to work through it. For Connecticut, which is a work hub with multiple people coming in and out for work, it is necessary to know how to deal with domestic violence.
Legal Options for Employees Facing Domestic Violence
Some of the key legal options for employees facing domestic violence in Connecticut include:
- Connecticut Safe Leave Law
“You do not have to keep working when facing domestic violence, as the law allows you to take some time off work to deal with your personal issues,” says attorney Mark Sherman of The Law Offices of Mark Sherman. This option is provided by Connecticut’s Family Violence Leave Act, allowing victims of domestic violence to stop working temporarily. You can discuss with your lawyer how to effectively navigate this law.
- Federal Protections Under the Family and Medical Leave Act
Although the Family and Medical Leave Act is not specific to domestic violence, it can still offer some protection to victims. For instance, domestic violence may qualify for job-protected leave. This allows them to focus on recovery or treatment while ensuring their position remains secure during their absence. That way, victims are not forced to choose between safety and financial survival.
- Restraining and Protective Orders
In Connecticut, restraining and protective orders play a vital role in safeguarding employees experiencing domestic violence. A restraining order is issued through a family court and can be requested without a criminal case. A protective order, on the other hand, is granted after an arrest in a domestic violence matter.
Both orders are designed to prevent the abuser from contacting the victim while the case is ongoing. For employees, these orders help victims focus on their jobs while feeling safer in their daily routines.
- Anti-Discrimination Protections
Employers in Connecticut are prohibited from discriminating against or terminating an employee because they are a victim of domestic violence. This protection clearly shows that abuse is never the victim’s fault. It also ensures survivors are not marginalized by workplace discrimination. If discrimination occurs, employees can file a claim seeking damages, reinstatement, and attorney’s fees.
- Unemployment Benefits
In Connecticut, survivors of domestic violence may qualify for unemployment benefits if they must leave work because of abuse. The law recognizes that leaving work under these circumstances is not the same as quitting voluntarily. Instead, it is a decision made out of safety concerns. This option ensures that survivors are not left financially vulnerable because they need to protect themselves.
Practical Options for Employees Facing Domestic Violence
Practical solutions for employees facing domestic violence include:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs to support employees during times of crisis. These programs often include confidential counseling, mental health support, and direct connections to community services. For survivors of domestic violence, this means having a safe outlet to seek guidance without fear of judgment at work.
- Workplace Safety Measures
Employers can also improve safety for affected employees. This may involve changing workstations, adjusting office access, or involving security staff when necessary. Even small changes in the work environment can help a survivor feel safer and more focused.
- Flexible Work Arrangements
Domestic violence can make it challenging for employees to maintain strict schedules. Options like remote work, flexible hours, or adjusted shifts provide survivors with the space to manage personal challenges while maintaining their employment. This flexibility can reduce stress and prevent further disruption at work.
Conclusion
You do not have to drown in domestic violence for a long time when there are several legal options available. Instead, you should consider speaking to an attorney in Connecticut who can guide you on the proper steps for your domestic violence case. That way, it does not interfere with your employment or further take a toll on you.
