Best Discrimination Lawyers in Illinois

About Discrimination Law in Illinois, United States

Discrimination occurs when individuals or groups are treated unfairly or unequally based on certain characteristics, such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. In Illinois, both federal and state laws protect people from discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and other areas. The Illinois Human Rights Act is a key law that prohibits discrimination and provides individuals with a way to seek justice if they believe they have been mistreated. Understanding your rights and the protections available is important if you believe you have experienced discrimination.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Discrimination cases can be complex, involving detailed laws and procedures. You may need a lawyer if you find yourself in any of these situations:

• You were denied a job, promotion, or equal pay due to your race, gender, age, religion, or another protected characteristic.
• Your landlord refused to rent to you or treated you differently because of your nationality or disability.
• You experienced harassment or a hostile work environment and your employer failed to address your complaints.
• You believe you have been denied access to services, education, or public places due to discrimination.
• You are unsure of your rights, have received a right-to-sue notice, or need to respond to a complaint against you.
• You need help gathering evidence or navigating government agencies like the Illinois Department of Human Rights.
• You want to explore settlement or mediation options without going to court.

Local Laws Overview

Illinois enforces both federal and state laws related to discrimination. The main state law, the Illinois Human Rights Act, covers several protected categories, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and military status. The Act applies to employment, credit, housing, public accommodations, and financial transactions.

Employers with at least one employee are generally covered by the Act, making it broader than some federal laws. Additionally, local city and county ordinances, such as those in Chicago and Cook County, may offer further protections. Agencies such as the Illinois Department of Human Rights investigate and enforce these laws. Relief can include reinstatement, back pay, monetary damages, and policy changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered discrimination under Illinois law?

Discrimination is unfair treatment based on protected characteristics, such as race, sex, disability, religion, or age, in areas like employment, housing, and public accommodations.

Which characteristics are protected by Illinois discrimination laws?

Illinois law protects against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and over), marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, and more.

Where can I file a discrimination complaint in Illinois?

Complaints can be filed with the Illinois Department of Human Rights. If your case involves employment, you may also file with federal agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

What is the time limit for filing a discrimination claim?

Generally, you have 300 days from the alleged act of discrimination to file with the Illinois Department of Human Rights, though shorter deadlines may apply in certain circumstances.

Can I be retaliated against for filing a discrimination complaint?

No, employers and other entities are prohibited from retaliating against individuals who file complaints or participate in investigations regarding discrimination.

What should I do if I am being discriminated against at work?

Document the incidents, report them to your human resources department or supervisor, and consider filing a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights or seeking legal advice.

Are small businesses covered by Illinois discrimination laws?

Yes, most employers with one or more employees are covered under the Illinois Human Rights Act, making it more inclusive than some federal laws.

What remedies are available if I win my discrimination case?

Potential remedies include reinstatement to your job, back pay, damages for emotional distress, attorney fees, policy changes, and more.

Are there alternatives to filing a lawsuit for discrimination in Illinois?

Yes, mediation and settlement discussions are often available. The Illinois Department of Human Rights may offer conciliation services as part of its procedures.

Do I need a lawyer to file a discrimination complaint?

Having a lawyer is not required but can be very helpful, especially for navigating complex legal standards, gathering evidence, and negotiating settlements.

Additional Resources

• Illinois Department of Human Rights - Investigates and resolves discrimination complaints.
• Illinois Human Rights Commission - Hears and decides complaints referred by the IDHR.
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Handles federal workplace discrimination claims.
• Chicago Commission on Human Relations - Enforces city-specific anti-discrimination ordinances.
• Fair Housing Organizations - Offer resources for addressing housing discrimination.
• Local legal aid organizations - Provide free or low-cost legal help for qualifying individuals.

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in Illinois, start by documenting the details of what happened, including dates, times, and witnesses. Report the issue to the relevant authority or employer if possible. File a complaint with the appropriate agency, such as the Illinois Department of Human Rights, within the required deadline. Consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in discrimination law to get personalized advice, understand your rights, and explore your options for resolution or legal action. Legal professionals can help you navigate claims, negotiate settlements, and ensure your interests are represented throughout the process.