An employee who experiences domestic or sexual violence may request leave for purposes such as:

• seeking medical attention,

• obtaining victim or social services,

• counselling services,

• relocating temporarily or permanently,

• seeking legal or

• law enforcement assistance, or a prescribed purpose.

The employee may be entitled to up to:

• five days of paid leave, up to five days of unpaid leave, and

• up to 15 weeks of additional unpaid leave.

The employer must pay the employee an amount in money equal to at least the amount calculated by multiplying the period of the leave and the average day's pay.

The employee is not entitled to leave if they commit domestic or sexual violence against the eligible person.

If requested, the employee must provide proof to the employer that they are entitled to the leave.

BC ESA s.52.5