We have an employer (17 years) who had an uncle pass away in another country. Without consulting us, she booked her trip to attend the funeral Jan 4th to Jan 11. We are currently short staffed. We can accommodate 2 days but need her back Jan 9. If the employee takes the entire time are we obligated to accommodate or would she be terminating her employment if she doesn't return. We are a dental office and she is the only assistant for the dentist.

This is a time sensitive matter and correspondence should be sent to the employee asap, requesting her return to the office on January 9, 2024, and explaining that failure to comply with this request is insubordination and would result in termination for cause, without compensation.

We recommend you reach out to us to book a consultation with a lawyer who will review the matter in further detail to ensure that no important facts are missed before you take action.