Employment Law Frequently Asked Questions

Federal employment law firm in Chicago FAQ

• What is your experience in helping clients with employment problems?
• What is the minimum wage in Chicago?
• What protection do employees have against wage theft?
• What are legal reasons for job termination?
• Is an employer obligated to pay severance when terminating an employee?
• What is sexual harassment?

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Our Chicago employment law attorneys are here to help

Whether you are an individual or small business, our experienced Chicago employment attorneys can advise you about employment issues under federal, state, and local law, explain which laws are applicable, and recommend the appropriate legal action, whether involving a claim with the Illinois Department of Human Rights, Illinois Human Rights Commission, City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations, Equal Employment Opportunity Claim (EEOC) claim or a lawsuit, or by using an employment mediator in Chicago. Call 312-445-9135 today or contact Goldman & Ehrlich online.

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What is your experience in helping clients with employment problems?

Each of our employment lawyers have more than 25 years of experience dealing with issues that involve employment laws for businesses in Chicago. We represent individuals and small businesses in disputes over discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, defamation, and other employment issues. Also, see our page about federal employment law in Chicago.

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What is the minimum wage in Chicago?

Minimum wages were raised in Chicago on July 1, 2010 according to Public Act 094-1072 from $7.25 an hour to $8.25 an hour.

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What protection do employees have against wage theft?

Existing Illinois state law was amended through SB 3568, which takes effect January 1, 2011, and increases penalties for wage theft:

• A misdemeanor is now a felony for repeated violations
• Higher fines exist for violations
• A mandatory administrative fee of $250 is charged against any employer found owing wages to an employee

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What are legal reasons for job termination?

Employment in Illinois is at will for employees of private employers unless you have an employment contract or are covered under a collective bargaining agreement that states you can only be terminated for certain reasons that would constitute just cause, or a contract that states you are employed for a specific period of time or term. Without such a contract, your employer may terminate you for any reason, unless the decision is based on discrimination, retaliation, or whistle-blowing activities. Various statutes prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin and gender identity. By consulting with our firm, we can determine if you suffered a wrongful termination. We can also determine if there was just cause for your termination for reasons such as:

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Is an employer obligated to pay severance when terminating an employee?

Unless an employee is terminated before contract completion or the contract contains a clause promising severance pay, or the company has severance plan, severance pay is not required.

What is sexual harassment?

The common denominator that generally defines sexual harassment is whether the behavior is unwelcome, such as:

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Find out how our employment law attorneys in Chicago can help you

By discussing your situation with our employment attorneys, you can gain a better understanding of your rights and can decide on the most effective legal remedy for your situation.

Call 312-445-9135 today to speak to a Chicago federal employment lawyer or contact Goldman & Ehrlich online.

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