Navigating Early Release: Can Family Emergencies Help Shorten My Notice Period?

Hi all, I quit my current firm on 27 July and was serving the mandatory two-month notice period. However, unfortunately, my parents met with a car accident and have been in a serious condition, needing constant care. I want to get an early release from my current employer, but I am not sure if this falls within their definition of exceptional circumstances. I have the hospital and doctor's certificates with me. I just want to confirm if the employer will agree to release me early. In case they do not, what course of action can I take? Please advise.

Thanks

Since you have all the medical papers in hand, I suggest first talking to your boss and then to HR, showing them the documents and requesting an early release. Unless they suspect the documents, they should agree to your request.

But there's one thing that's a bit out of place. Who would wish to be out of a job in such trying circumstances? If what you mentioned is indeed true, I suggest asking for leave without pay (worst-case scenario). It's always better to have the comforting thought that you can get back to work after the situation eases—in a nutshell, don't add another worry.

Regarding your query, "In case they do not, what course of action can I take?" I suggest following the adage: "cross the bridge when it comes"—meaning handle things one by one.

Regards,
TS

Thanks for your reply. Your views are much appreciated. The thing is that I could use the early release to support my parents and be there for them when they need me the most. At this point, what matters to me is that I am available for any support that they would need. So I wanted to know, as it is in this case, that there are no specific examples of exceptional circumstances mentioned in the HR handbook. I am ready to incur the loss of pay if it helps me get an early release.

Regards.

I agree with your need to be closer to your parents at this time. I suggest you first push for the necessary leave and see how it works out. In this context, please be prepared if the company wants to cross-check the medical reports with their panel doctors – on the veracity and whether their prognosis matches the time you are asking for leave.

But why are you again insisting on 'if it helps me get an early release'? What's your definition of 'release'?

Regards,
TS

As suggested by Mr. TS, first of all, avail yourself of the leave you have and then request them to extend the leave period without pay to the extent it is needed for your family to ease out. Then join your family business. Since, as you have said, your uncle will not force you to join him ASAP, maybe it's 3 months or 6 months.

By this, I hope the management will certainly look into the genuineness and will grant you the leave as well as an easy exit. Why do you need to have a bad relationship with your employer who has put their trust in you as long as you were with them?