FMLA Leave Denied | employer changed my status to contractor

Looking for advice on a legal issue. Here's what happened.

employer changed my status to contractor. I've been dealing with this for about 9 months now and the situation isn't improving.

I have worked at this company for 12 years. My position is exempt and I do not have a written employment agreement beyond the standard offer letter.

Do I have a strong case? What should my next steps be?

This happened to my coworker too.

The thing that gets people is escalating to a supervisor/manager. I'd recommend following the formal complaint procedure instead.

Not gonna lie, I put off calling an attorney for weeks. Wish I hadn't waited.