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How long does maternity leave last when you are an employee?
If you are an employee, maternity leave is 16 to 46 weeks depending on the number of expected children and dependent children. Subject to the favorable opinion of the doctor who is monitoring your pregnancy and if you wish, it can be shorter, but never less than 8 weeks, including 6 minimum after childbirth. Advanced prenatal leave leads to a reduction in the postnatal period and vice versa. As for business leaders and self-employed women, they have benefited from the same length of maternity leave since January 1, 2019, i.e. at least 8 weeks.
Are we guaranteed to return to our post at the end of our leave?
As an employee, you must find your position or an equivalent position. This sometimes gives rise to litigation. Know that declassification is prohibited: if you are an executive, you will remain so. In addition, you must receive the same level of remuneration as when you left, or increased according to your seniority or any increases granted to your colleagues in your absence. A study carried out by Cadreo, in 2016, nevertheless indicates that half of female executives continue to work remotely to maintain their place in the company, and also their achievements.
Can we work during maternity leave?
Yes, if you wish, in a company or teleworking, as long as the
8 week interruption period is respected, but your employer
can in no way impose it on you. On the other hand, you cannot work for another employer during your maternity leave, unless you are part-time and you respect the 8 weeks of leave.
Can I be fired when I return from maternity leave?
Unless there is a contractual termination, the employer does not have the right to terminate an employment contract during maternity leave or during the following 10 weeks. The labor tribunal can, in this case, cancel a dismissal. And if the employee commits a serious fault, the termination can only be effective at the end of the maternity leave.
Is the return interview mandatory?
Unlike the professional interview on departure on maternity leave, which is optional, the return interview is compulsory. It allows you to take stock of your post. You can discuss the organization of your working time, your training, your development wishes, etc. It must give rise to the drafting of a summary countersigned by the employee.