New Changes to the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave Program

October 19, 2023

Recent legislative changes regarding the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program were made. These changes will have an impact on both employees and employers.


Employees filing applications for PFML benefits on or after November 1, 2023 may supplement with any available accrued paid leave such as sick time, vacation, PTO, etc.  The combined weekly sum of PFML benefits and employer-provided leave benefits cannot exceed the employee's Individual Average Weekly Wage (IAWW). 


Applications filed retroactively for a leave that begins prior to November 1, 2023 are eligible for topping off if the application is filed on or after November 1, 2023.


The Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) will be providing further guidance in the coming days regarding "topping off".


If your business has any questions on this topic or any other matters, please do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at The Royal Law Firm at 413-586-2288.

Royal Attorneys Secure Summary Judgment at Massachusetts Appeals Court

December 5, 2025
Our attorneys successfully obtained summary judgment in favor of the Defendant from the Massachusetts Appeals Court in a Wage Act and contract dispute. The Complainant alleged entitlement to a substantial variable compensation award following resignation. We demonstrated that the compensation plan made such awards discretionary and contingent on continued employment at the time of payout. The Appeals Court agreed, finding that the award did not constitute wages under the Wage Act and that the Defendant acted lawfully in denying payment. All claims were dismissed in their entirety.

Amy Royal Named 2025 Super Lawyer!

By The Royal Law Firm • November 5, 2025
Attorney Amy Royal has once again been selected as a Super Lawyer ! As published by Super Lawyers Amy B. Royal is a top-rated attorney, with her firm headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts. Providing legal representation in the New England states and New York, for a variety of different issues, Amy Royal was selected to Super Lawyers for 2014 - 2016, 2019 - 2025. Attorneys like Amy B. Royal are recognized by their peers for their outstanding work and commitment to the spirit of the legal profession. Their knowledge of the law, professional work ethic, and advocacy on behalf of their clients allow them to stand out among other attorneys in the field.