Leave for appointment help!

[halfa]

Hi.

Need some advice. Ive used up all my annual leave (well i have 3 days left, but one for a court appointment and 2 for a short break im going on with the kids over xmas)

I was supposed to be attending a meeting with my solicitors (and exs - family law matters) this afternoon. I arrived. Ex did not. So my last free half a day holiday used up, cos he didnt turn up. Apparently he was sick, and they couldnt get the message in time for me not to choose to leave work.

They want to reschedule for next Friday. Now i have problems
a) i have no annual leave left
b) i know that my 2 comparitive colleagues are off that day so my boss is not going to want to let me swan off at 10 and not return until 3 (which is what i will have to do to meet the appointment)
c) boss is already slightly annoyed about the number of appointments (court / mediation / cafcass concilitory / childrens therapy) i have had this last 18 months, and there is no end appearing to be in sight.
d) if i dont attend it will allow ex and his sol to paint me as uncooperative and refusing to meet yo discuss how we move forward.

can i take the leave anyway?
can i refuse the meeting on the grounds it will cause difficulties at work. I am sure if i kicked up enough of a stink i would be allowed to flexi time it, but i dont want to alientate work. They have been brilliant for all the other appointments etc etc, but i just know this will be a difficult day for them

What should i do?

[Igglystuffedfullofturkey]

Reschedule for another day and explain the situation to your boss and solicitors. It's not your fault that your ex didn't make it. Ask them what days would be better - that way they'll be more sympathetic. Can you get something which is nearer the start or end of the day?

[cestlavielife]

call working families for advice
www.workingfamilies.org.uk/

helpline on this page www.workingfamilies.org.uk/articles/advising-parents

[Resolution]

I'd reschedule for a day you can get off work - presumably your new holiday entitlement will start in the new year. I'm sure if you explain that then people will be understanding.

[WestVirginia]

Can you borrow a half days leave from next years allowance?