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Adoption and Foster Placement Leave

Eligible employees are entitled to FMLA leave for the adoption or placement of a foster child. Employees may take FMLA leave before the actual placement or adoption of a child if an absence from work is required for the adoption or foster care placement to proceed.

Examples of allowable reasons to take FMLA leave prior to adoption or foster placement:

  • To attend counseling sessions
  • To appear in court
  • To consult with an attorney or the doctor(s) representing the birth parent
  • To submit to a physical examination
  • To travel to another country to complete an adoption

Employees who are ineligible for leave for the adoption of a child under the age of 3 under the FMLA may be eligible for leave under Parental Leave.

How to Apply

Submit BOTH items below via LeaveAdministration@UTSouthwestern.edu to Leave Administration for consideration of the FMLA request.

  1. A completed Family and Medical Leave Act Request Form (link requires VPN). (The employee’s supervisor may submit the form on behalf of the employee if the employee is unavailable for more than three (3) consecutive days.)
  2. An acceptable government-issued document reflecting the placement (e.g., certificate or decree of adoption, validation order, or other court document).

Questions about leave? 

Leave Administration 
214-648-9840

LeaveAdministration@UTSouthwestern.edu