Most good employers work hard to create the kind of work environments their employees can thrive in. In order to create such an environment there is a tension that must be managed. If policies and restrictions are too stringent, employee morale will decrease and productivity right along with it. On the other hand, if there…
Read MoreEmployment discrimination generally refers to unlawful employment-related decisions (e.g., hiring, promotion, discipline, termination) based on “protected characteristics” of an employee or applicant. Applicable Federal and State Laws Title VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it unlawful for an employer with 15 or more employees to consider the race, color, religion, sex or…
Read More“The idea of having a steady job is appealing.” Robin Williams Severance Packages A severance package from your employer can help keep you afloat financially as you look for another job, however, you must understand what a severance package is as well as what the average severance package is worth. Knowing this will make sure you are…
Read MoreFederal laws provide protection for employees against abusive treatment by their employers, helping to prevent discrimination, while providing a fair wage. FLSA and Fair Wages for Overtime The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) requires an employer to pay employees 150% of their regular hourly rate for any work-hours that exceed 40 hours during a…
Read MoreMany companies will not hesitate to use common scare tactics when they wrongfully discharge an employee. There are a number of accusations that employers use as a cause to discharge an employee; however, it does not necessarily exempt the employee from suing for a wrongful discharge even in “at will” states. Common Scare Tactics that Companies…
Read MoreWhen an individual is pursuing employment opportunities, it is imperative to consider how a non-compete agreement will affect them if they decide to leave. Escaping non-compete agreements in today’s business environment is not as simple as it used to be. Many courts now uphold these agreements in favor of the employer unless it can be…
Read MoreEven though Illinois is an “at will” employment state, there are still circumstances where an employee may be able to sue an employer for breach of contract. Contracts may be more than a specific written agreement signed by an employer and employee; other written documents, or even unwritten standards adhered to by an employer concerning…
Read MoreA leave from work to care for your own medical condition or a serious medical condition of a loved one is typically covered under employment laws. The employee’s job will be held for the specified length of time as per their employment contract. However, if the employee loses a close family member, most companies do…
Read MoreUnemployment can be a double-edged sword for some families. Past-due bills and financial hardship can create a less-than-perfect credit score. So why do some employers find it necessary to run a credit check for potential employees? While Federal law requires written permission for an employer to check your credit, it can be unsettling to go…
Read MoreAs an employee in Illinois, you are entitled to work in a hazard-free, discrimination-free environment. Every employer has legal obligations to their employees. The Chicago employment and discrimination lawyers at Goldman & Ehrlich can offer invaluable guidance to employees who feel their rights are being violated by their employer. Specific Legal Rights of Illinois Employees…
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