Failure to Accommodate for California Employee

California law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with physical or mental disabilities so they can perform the essential functions of their jobs. When an employer refuses to engage in this process or denies legitimate accommodation requests, it may violate both the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). At Miracle Mile Law Group, our attorneys represent employees across California who have been denied workplace accommodations or treated unfairly because of a disability.

Understanding an employer’s duty to accommodate
Employers in California must provide reasonable accommodations once they know an employee has a qualifying disability or medical condition. This obligation includes modifying work duties, adjusting schedules, allowing medical leave, or providing assistive devices. The law also requires employers to engage in a good faith “interactive process” to explore possible accommodations. A failure to communicate with the employee, delay action, or outright deny a reasonable request can create grounds for legal action.

When employees should seek legal help
Employees should contact an attorney when their employer refuses to discuss or grant accommodations supported by medical documentation. Common examples include denying a modified schedule for medical treatment, refusing ergonomic equipment, or rejecting light-duty work options after an injury. Some employers retaliate against workers who request accommodations by cutting hours, issuing false performance reviews, or forcing resignation. Legal counsel can help document these violations, file a claim with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), and pursue compensation through negotiation or litigation.

Potential recovery in failure to accommodate cases
Successful cases can result in compensation for:

• Lost wages and benefits: for income lost due to termination, demotion, or reduced hours.
• Emotional distress damages: for the stress, anxiety, and hardship caused by unlawful treatment.
• Punitive damages: when an employer’s conduct shows willful disregard for employee rights.
• Attorneys’ fees and legal costs: as part of a settlement or court award.

At Miracle Mile Law Group, we understand that life can present challenges that require special accommodations in the workplace. Whether you need adjustments due to a disability or need time off to care for yourself or a loved one, employers are legally obligated to provide reasonable accommodations and family or medical leave. Unfortunately, many employers fail to meet these obligations, leaving employees struggling to balance their health, family, and careers.

We are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees who have been denied reasonable accommodations or family and medical leave. Our experienced employment attorneys fight for those who need assistance navigating these complex legal issues, ensuring that you are treated fairly and your rights are upheld.

Failure to accommodate occurs when an employer refuses or neglects to provide reasonable adjustments that would allow an employee with a disability or medical condition to perform essential job functions. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employers are required to provide accommodations unless doing so would create an undue hardship for the company.

Common accommodations include:

• Adjusted work schedules
• Accessible workspaces
• Modified duties or responsibilities
• Use of assistive devices or technologies
• Time off for medical treatment or recovery

When employers refuse to engage in an interactive process or fail to provide accommodations, they violate the rights of employees, placing their health and livelihoods at risk.

Family & Medical Leave

In addition to workplace accommodations, employees are also entitled to time off for family or medical reasons under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). These laws ensure that employees can take unpaid leave for:

• The birth or adoption of a child
• Care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition
• Recovery from the employee’s own serious health condition
• Military family leave

Under FMLA and CFRA, eligible employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave within a 12-month period, with job protection. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who request or take family and medical leave.

How Employers Fail to Meet Their Obligations

Employers can fail to accommodate or provide medical leave in various ways, including:

• Refusing to offer modified work schedules or duties
• Denying requests for medical leave or making the process difficult
• Retaliating against employees for requesting accommodations or leave
• Failing to engage in the interactive process required by law

At Miracle Mile Law Group, we recognize the immense stress that comes with balancing work, family, and health needs. Our attorneys will fight on your behalf to ensure that your employer fulfills their legal obligations to provide accommodations and leave.

The Impact of Denied Accommodations or Leave

When employers fail to provide accommodations or leave, it can have devastating effects on employees. They may face disciplinary action or job loss for being unable to meet unreasonable expectations, or suffer health complications from being denied time off to recover. Employees may also face emotional distress and financial hardships as a result of lost wages or forced resignation.

Our team of attorneys is here to help you protect your rights and recover damages for the harm caused by your employer’s failure to accommodate or grant family and medical leave.

If you have been denied reasonable accommodations or family and medical leave, Miracle Mile Law Group is here to help. Our attorneys will:

• Evaluate your situation during a free consultation
• Guide you through the process of filing a complaint or lawsuit
• Advocate for your rights in negotiations or court proceedings
• Seek compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages
• Ensure your employer complies with California and federal laws on accommodations and leave

California law, through the FEHA, FMLA, and CFRA, provides robust protections for employees who need accommodations or time off for medical or family reasons. Employers are legally required to comply with these laws and provide the necessary support for their employees. If your employer has failed to meet these requirements, you have the right to take legal action.

Miracle Mile Law Group employment attorneys have lead many current and former employees of organizations that refuse to accommodate their employees needs. Our attorneys specializing in getting the best compensation and results for our clients.

If your employer has denied your requests for reasonable accommodations or family and medical leave, Miracle Mile Law Group is here to help. We are committed to defending your rights and ensuring that you are treated fairly in the workplace. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next step in seeking justice.