Workplace discrimination is against the law, and any violation of your rights as an employee warrants prompt legal action. When your employer acts illegally, our dedicated employment attorneys at Wanta Thome will advocate for you. Whether you are dealing with discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, wage disputes, or another issue, a confidential consultation with a Chicago employee rights attorney can provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to learn more.
When your Chicago employer discriminates against you, they’re violating federal law, state law, AND the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance—meaning you have three separate legal pathways to hold them accountable and recover damages.
Chicago workers are entitled to significant wage protections that exceed federal standards. The city’s minimum wage is higher than both state and federal minimums and increases periodically based on the consumer price index. Employers must pay non-exempt employees overtime at time-and-a-half for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek, among other requirements. If your employer violates wage and hour laws, consulting an employment lawyer can ensure you recover all unpaid wages, overtime, and penalties you’re owed.
Federal, state, and local laws prohibit employment discrimination based on protected characteristics, including, but not limited to:
Chicago’s Human Rights Ordinance provides particularly broad protections, covering more characteristics than federal law.
If you’ve experienced workplace discrimination, contact an employment attorney immediately to evaluate your claim and help you pursue remedies through administrative complaints or litigation.
You have the right to work in an environment free from harassment based on protected characteristics. Sexual harassment and hostile work environment claims are actionable when the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.
Employers are legally obligated to prevent and address harassment, and state and local law protect employees from retaliation when they report discrimination, harassment, safety violations, wage theft, or other illegal conduct. When you are faced with retaliation after making complaints or participating in investigations, an employment lawyer can explain your legal options and help ensure your employer is held accountable for breaking the law.
Eligible employees have the right to job-protected leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and state laws. The FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for serious health conditions, caring for family members with serious health conditions, bonding with a new child, or military family leave. Being denied leave you were entitled to or being terminated for taking leave is an actionable offense for which you can pursue reinstatement and compensation.
State law protects employees who report violations of law, refuse to participate in illegal activities, or cooperate with government investigations. Whistleblower protections shield you from termination or other adverse actions when you report illegal conduct to authorities or within your company.
Employment law is complicated, and employers often strive to avoid or minimize liability. Our attorneys fight for employee rights by:
When your rights are violated, we hold those responsible liable. Contact our firm to consult an experienced employee rights lawyer in Chicago who can help ensure you receive the protections and compensation the law provides.
For the right legal support and advocacy, trust Wanta Thome Employment Lawyers. A Chicago employee rights attorney from our firm will provide you with personalized attention and dedicated representation. If you are facing employment issues, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Contact us today and let us help you protect your legal rights.