Best Employment Rights Lawyers in Illinois

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Lashly & Baer
Belleville, United States

Founded in 1972
86 people in their team
English
We Have A History Of Making HistoryLashly & Baer, P.C., has its roots from Jacob M. Lashly, one of Missouri’s outstanding trial lawyers and a president of the American Bar Association. Another aspect of our legacy is the commitment to the communities in which we live and work. This public...
Jones Day
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1893
2,500 people in their team
English
Jones Day has a history of more than 125 years and a culture of client service and professionalism based on explicit shared values. These values include providing pro bono legal services, building diversity in our profession, and supporting outreach efforts around the world.Jones Day has a long...
Elfenbaum Evers & Zielinska, P.C.
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1974
3 people in their team
English
OUR VISIONElfenbaum Evers & Zielinska, P.C. is a Union Plus law firm located in Chicago, Illinois. Our firm’s focus is helping people, primarily injured workers, with their Illinois Workers’ Compensation claims. For over four decades, tens of thousands of Illinois workers and...
Perkins Coie LLP
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Conway & Mrowiec Attorneys LLLP
Chicago, United States

Founded in 2000
3 people in their team
English
Conway & Mrowiec Attorneys LLLP concentrates on Construction Law and Litigation.  The firm has built long-standing relationships with its clients and treats new clients with the same goal.  Conway & Mrowiec represents major developers and owners, construction contractors,...
Ice Miller LLP
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1910
350 people in their team
English
Built on a foundation of legal service more than a century long, Ice Miller LLP is committed to helping our clients stay ahead in a changing world.Our diverse client base ranges from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies and from governmental entities to educational organizations and pension funds. We...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
MVP Law
Springfield, United States

Founded in 1901
164 people in their team
English
Founded in 1901, MVP Law is never concerned with how others do it; we forge our own path to always meet our client’s needs. Experts in public and private sector workers’ compensation, general liability, and employment and education law, our attorneys are attentive, knowledgeable and ready to...
Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC
Chicago, United States

Founded in 1869
304 people in their team
English
Howard & Howard is a full-service law firm with a national and international practice that provides legal services to businesses and business owners. The firm has offices in Royal Oak, Michigan; Illinois (Chicago and Peoria); Las Vegas, Nevada; and Beverly Hills, California. From our...

Founded in 1948
1,700 people in their team
English
The traits that fueled Skadden’s rise from a New York startup to a global powerhouse - collaborative, innovative, persistent - continue to define our firm culture. We remain intensely focused on the simple formula of developing an inclusive complement of extraordinary attorneys, working together...
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United States Employment Rights Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 3 legal questions about Employment Rights in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

How will I be able to receive money for the way I have been treated and all my hard work at a job I just quit from from but not unemployment?
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
which country is matter occured?
Do I win against my boss?
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
Hi, we will be glad to assist and to help you with your case, kindly call or chat on WhatsApp with me at: 0806-809-5282 or send email to: sksolicitors.ng@gmail.com and please visit our website at: www.sk-solicitorsng.com to read more about our legal services.Thank you and best regards,Kingsley Izimah, Esq.SK Solicitors
Is it illegal to lay off an employee when sick
Employment & Labor
Employment Rights
Wrongful Termination
Hello and thank you for contacting SK Solicitors, a full service law firm based in Lagos, Nigeria.Kindly let us know how we can help you to solve your legal needs and before we can render legal advice service, you will be required to pay consultancy fees.Kindly read more about our legal services on our website at: www.sk-solicitorsng.com and send us an email to: sksolicitors.ng@gmail.com or chat with us on WhatsApp at: +234 0806-809-5282 for legal advisory service.Thanks, Kingsley Izimah, Esq.

About Employment Rights Law in Illinois, United States

Employment rights law in Illinois protects workers against unfair treatment and ensures safe and equitable workplaces. These rights cover issues such as discrimination, wage and hour laws, breaks, workplace safety, retaliation, wrongful termination, and employee benefits. Both state and federal laws apply, sometimes overlapping to provide employees with a broad range of protections. Whether you are an at-will employee or covered by a contract, Illinois employment law aims to safeguard your fundamental rights at work.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many employment issues can be resolved directly with your employer, there are situations where professional legal help is essential. If you have been fired or disciplined unfairly, discriminated against based on a protected characteristic, denied wages or overtime pay, experienced harassment, or faced retaliation for reporting a concern, consulting with an employment rights lawyer is a wise step. Legal assistance is often necessary to interpret complex laws, negotiate settlements, file formal complaints, or represent you in court or administrative proceedings.

Local Laws Overview

Illinois employment law is a blend of state statutes, administrative regulations, and federal standards. Key aspects include:

  • At-Will Employment - Most workers in Illinois are at-will employees, meaning employers can terminate employment for any reason except an illegal one, such as discrimination or retaliation.
  • Illinois Human Rights Act - This protects employees from discrimination and sexual harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and more.
  • Wage and Hour Laws - Governed by the Illinois Minimum Wage Law and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, Illinois sets minimum wage, overtime, and pay frequency requirements. Some municipalities, such as Chicago or Cook County, may have higher minimum wages.
  • Paid Leave - The Paid Leave for All Workers Act gives most employees the right to earn and use paid leave for any reason. Effective January 1, 2024.
  • Workplace Safety - The Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Act (for public employees) and the federal OSHA (for private sector workers) ensure safe and healthy work environments.
  • Retaliation Protections - Laws prohibit employers from retaliating against workers who report violations, file complaints, or participate in investigations.
  • Equal Pay and Benefits - Illinois law ensures equal pay for equal work and protects employees’ benefits and leaves, including family and medical leave under state and federal laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered wrongful termination in Illinois?

Illinois is an at-will employment state, but it is illegal for employers to terminate employees based on protected characteristics or in retaliation for lawful activities, such as whistleblowing or filing a complaint.

What is the minimum wage in Illinois?

As of 2024, the state minimum wage is 14 dollars per hour for non-tipped workers and 8.40 dollars per hour for tipped employees. Some cities and counties may require higher minimum wages.

Am I entitled to overtime pay?

Most non-exempt employees in Illinois are entitled to overtime pay at one and one-half times their regular hourly rate for any time worked over 40 hours in a workweek.

What types of discrimination are prohibited in the workplace?

Illinois law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, disability, military status, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

Can my employer retaliate against me for reporting violations?

No, it is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees who report legal violations, file complaints, participate in investigations, or assert their rights under employment laws.

Is my employer required to provide breaks or meal periods?

Illinois law requires employees who work 7.5 continuous hours to receive a 20-minute meal break. Additional breaks may apply in certain industries or under specific employer policies.

Do I have the right to paid sick leave?

Under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, most Illinois employees accrue paid leave and can use it for any reason. In addition, certain local ordinances in places like Chicago may require additional sick leave benefits.

What should I do if I am facing workplace harassment?

Keep records of incidents, report them through your employer’s internal procedures, and contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights or a qualified attorney if the situation does not improve.

Can I view my personnel file?

Illinois employees have the right to request and view their personnel records twice per year under the Illinois Personnel Record Review Act.

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?

Generally, employees have 300 days from the alleged incident to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Timelines may vary, so seek legal guidance for your specific case.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding employment rights, consider contacting or reviewing resources from:

  • Illinois Department of Labor - Enforces state wage, hour, and labor laws.
  • Illinois Department of Human Rights - Handles discrimination and harassment complaints.
  • U.S. Department of Labor - Oversees federal wage, hour, and workplace standards.
  • Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Investigates federal discrimination claims.
  • Legal Aid Chicago - Provides free or low-cost legal services for eligible individuals.
  • Chicago Commission on Human Relations - Handles discrimination complaints in the city.
  • National Employment Lawyers Association - Illinois Chapter.

Next Steps

If you believe your employment rights have been violated in Illinois, start by reviewing your employer’s internal complaint policies and taking detailed notes of any incidents or relevant communications. File a complaint with the appropriate agency if necessary, but be mindful of filing deadlines. For complex situations or if you are unsure about your rights, consult an experienced employment rights attorney in Illinois. Legal professionals can provide tailored advice, help you understand your options, and represent your interests throughout the process. Seeking trusted legal counsel as soon as possible increases your ability to protect your rights and achieve a fair outcome.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Illinois through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Employment Rights, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Illinois, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.