Kannapolis, NC asked in Employment Law for North Carolina

Q: I was fired from work for calling out 3 times due in part to episodic chronic illness

On friday Jan 26, I called out of work experiencing a an episode where I almost passed out due to high blood pressure. I went to urgent care and provided a note, as requested, to my manager. On January 31st, I had to call out again because of another episode. I went to the ER as instructed by urgent care, and brought another note. The same thing happened on February 1, but I was able to get a doctor's appointment for the next day (when I was off) and was finally given medication for high blood pressure.

On February 8, I started having symptoms of what was later confirmed to be viral gastroenteritis. Working at a restaurant, the policy is that if you're displaying viral symptoms, you cannot work until 24 hours after they stop. Furthermore, the doctor recommended that I stay home until Monday February 12. After I delivered my doctors note, I received a call saying I was being let go because I called out too much, and when further questioned, was told it didn't matter that I had notes

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1 Lawyer Answer
Kirk Angel
Kirk Angel
Answered
  • Concord, NC
  • Licensed in North Carolina

A: You may have a claim under the FMLA or possibly the Americans With Disabilities Act. I cannot tell for sure based on these facts alone. You should consult with an experienced employment attorney as soon as possible.

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