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The one thing that you are almost certain to encounter at any firm is a strict adherence to the rules. Let’s face the facts here; lawyers have jobs because there are laws. Therefore, while it’s ok to ask, you can’t expect a law firm to bend the rules - it’s just not in their nature!!! If the firm you work for has a policy about vacation and sick-leave time, they will probably hold you to the standard set for all employees, despite the obvious sensitivity of your situation.

Perhaps this is a matter that goes beyond rules and policies. For example, if you think your father will not recover from his illness, you certainly don’t want to say, “Sorry, dad, but I just can’t get the time off. You think you could hold out until it’s convenient?”

You make decisions about what is most important in your life. You are the one who knows whether this can wait until you rack up the required time. There are consequences no matter what you decide, but only you know how to weigh them.