Leave for extraordinary events: wedding, death, and illness - Leave for personal reasons such as marriage, death, or sickness is a specific type of approved absence.
Taking Time Off for Unforeseen Life Events: Navigating Special Leave Policies
Written by Nina Jerzy~ 3-minute read
Navigating special leave situations might seem tricky and overwhelming, but don't worry! Here's a straightforward guide to help you understand your rights and handle various occasions requiring time off.
First off, special leave isn't exclusively for occasions of sorrow, such as a loved one's passing. It caters to a broad spectrum, from joyous events like weddings to routine appointments, without taking a bite out of your well-deserved vacation days. The good news is that there's no upper limit to the number of special leave days you can take in a year. However, keep in mind that this type of leave can become complex, so it's essential to stay informed.
According to Till Bender, a lawyer at DGB Rechtsschutz GmbH, certain conditions set by the legislator apply to special leave. In principle, special leave is paid for significant family events and personal emergencies, but these guidelines may be overridden by collective bargaining or employment contract. In some cases, company policies or works agreements may also govern special leave situations. If there are no specific policies in place, you may be entitled to your legal claim, Bender explains.
Here are some common scenarios for special leave, as determined by court rulings:
- Your own wedding
- Children or parent's wedding
- Parents' golden wedding anniversary
- Your wife's childbirth
- Close family funerals
- Doctor's appointments
- Home burglaries
- Fires
- Uninsured traffic accidents
The length of your special leave will depend on the situation. For example, attending a doctor's appointment might only require a few hours off, while family events often warrant the entire day. In most cases, the duration is about seven to ten days per occasion.
Employees are also eligible for special leave if they need to care for a sick child or dependent relative. If you find yourself in this position, consider using special leave before opting for child sickness benefits. Keep in mind that employees can claim up to 15 days per year per parent or 30 days for single parents from their health insurance for dependent care.
What about taking time off for volunteer activities or certain commitments? Bender suggests checking if exemptions exist for such situations. In some cases, paid exemptions may be possible for educational leave, volunteer activities, civic duties, job applications, or even prayers. It's essential to consider the specifics of each case.
Requesting Special Leave
When requesting special leave, it's advisable to inform your employer as early as possible, allowing them to prepare a replacement if necessary. For unforeseen events like fires or accidents, a phone call is usually sufficient. In such situations, it's essential to contact your employer promptly to ensure a smooth process and avoid confusion.
In the case of doctor's appointments, simply informing your employer or showing them an appointment card is typically sufficient. However, if your employer is skeptical, a medical certificate or a letter from your doctor might be necessary. It's important to remember that your supervisor cannot force you to see an alternative doctor with evening appointments.
In instances where you miss work due to an unavoidable traffic accident, your employer may request police documents or correspondence with the insurance. If you were at fault for the accident, the wages already paid may be claimed back. However, many companies choose not to pursue this.
Contrary to sick leave, special leave has no fixed duration. "Your employer cannot say, 'You got married and your father died, so I won't grant leave for your sister's wedding!'" explains Bender.
In all, special leave is a flexible employment benefit that offers support during various life events. Stay informed, know your rights, and don't shy away from taking the time you need when circumstances require it.
Special LeaveEmployee RightsTime OffWork-Life Balance
- In the realm of science and health-and-wellness, research could provide valuable insights into improving family dynamics during times of employment-related special leave. For instance, studies might explore effective strategies for maintaining job performance while juggling family responsibilities during extended absences.
- Embracing a culture of family-friendly science, where researchers prioritize work-life balance, could lead to a more productive and fulfilled workforce, ultimately contributing to greater advancements in science and overall health and wellness.
