Employment Law Services in Chicago, IL

Common Employment Law Cases in Illinois

Employment law encompasses a broad range of workplace protections and obligations, such as:

• Unlawful Termination. This includes being fired for discriminatory reasons, retaliation, or breach of contract. 
• Workplace Harassment or Hostile Environment. This includes enduring ongoing harassment from coworkers, supervisors, or clients.
• Wage Disputes. This includes failure to pay overtime, minimum wage, or misclassification as an exempt employee.
• Whistleblower Claims. This entails retaliation for reporting illegal activities or unsafe conditions.
• Contract & Severance Disputes. This includes enforcement of non-compete agreements, severance packages, or bonus entitlements.

Each case requires detailed investigation, evidence collection, and a clear understanding of the legal standards applicable to the workplace and industry.

Discrimination & Harassment

Employees are protected from discriminatory practices based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or other protected characteristics. Harassment in the workplace—whether verbal, physical, or visual—is addressed under both Illinois state law (e.g., the Illinois Human Rights Act) and federal law (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act).

We carefully review workplace communications, personnel files, and incident reports to document patterns of discrimination or harassment. By gathering witness statements, internal emails, and prior complaints, we build a comprehensive case to advocate for remedies such as compensation, policy changes, or reinstatement when appropriate.

Wage & Hour Violations

Illinois law and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) set standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and proper recordkeeping. Employees may have claims if they are underpaid, misclassified as exempt, or denied legally mandated breaks.

We analyze payroll records, timekeeping systems, and employment classifications to identify violations. Our team can file claims with the Illinois Department of Labor or pursue litigation to recover unpaid wages, overtime, or penalties owed to clients.

Wrongful Termination

Illinois is an at-will employment state, but wrongful termination claims can arise when an employee is fired in violation of anti-discrimination laws, retaliation protections, or contractual agreements.

We assess termination notices, HR documentation, and any underlying employment agreements to determine potential legal claims. By collecting supporting evidence and filing complaints with the appropriate agencies or courts, we work to hold employers accountable and seek remedies such as reinstatement or compensation.

Retaliation for Whistleblower Claims 

Employers cannot take adverse action against employees for exercising legally protected rights, such as reporting unsafe working conditions, filing a complaint with a government agency, or participating in investigations.

We investigate the circumstances surrounding adverse employment actions, including changes to job responsibilities, demotions, or termination. By guiding clients through reporting processes and advocating for protections under state and federal whistleblower statutes, our team develops a strategic approach. Our goal is to prove causal links between protected activity and retaliation, ensuring clients can pursue appropriate legal relief.

Employment Contracts & Agreements

Disputes over employment agreements, non-compete clauses, or severance arrangements often require careful legal analysis to determine enforceability and the employee’s rights.

We review contract language, negotiate on behalf of clients, and, if necessary, challenge overly restrictive or unlawful provisions in court. Our goal is to protect clients’ career mobility, secure rightful compensation, and clarify legal obligations under any existing agreements.