An employee who has been working continuously for 13 weeks is entitled to take time off work if they or their child have experienced domestic or sexual violence or threats of violence.

The employee can take leave for various reasons, including:

• seeking medical attention,

• getting help from victim services organizations or counselling,

• relocating, or

• getting legal or law enforcement assistance.

The employee can take up to:

• 10 days of leave each year, and

• the first 5 days are paid while the rest are unpaid.

• The employer must pay the employee for the days they take off, and the payment should be equal to what the employee would have earned if they worked those days.

The employee must take the leave in full days and let the employer know in advance.

If the employee needs to start the leave before notifying the employer, they should let the employer know in writing as soon as possible.

• The employer may ask for proof that the employee is entitled to the leave.

• The employer must also keep the employee's records confidential.

Ont ESA s.49.7