Top Chicago, IL Employment Law Lawyers Near You

What Is Employment Law?

Employment law covers the rights and duties between employers and employees. It includes hiring, workplace safety, discrimination, wages, and benefits laws. This area of law protects workers from unfair practices and provides guidelines for employers to follow. Employment law ensures you receive fair treatment in the workplace and allows you to take legal action if someone violates your rights.

What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need an Employment Lawyer?

You might need an employment lawyer if you are dealing with:

• Workplace discrimination
• Sexual harassment
• Wrongful termination
• Unpaid wages or denied benefits
• Unsafe working conditions
• Negotiating an employment contract
• Retaliation for whistleblowing
• Non-compete clauses
• Resolving a dispute over a promotion or job duties

How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Employment Law?

When it comes to any type of workplace dispute or illegal treatment, an employment lawyer can protect and assert your rights. A lawyer will help you navigate the legal system and see that your interests are represented by providing essential knowledge, insight, and support, including: 

• Investigating and gathering evidence of your claims
• Determining liability and evaluating your damages or losses
• Navigating federal, Illinois, and Chicago employment laws and protections
• Negotiation, mediation, and trial representation
• Enforcement of court orders
• Filing legal motions and complaints with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the U.S. Department of Labor, and other federal or state agencies

What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire an Employment Lawyer?

You might struggle to understand and defend your rights if you don’t hire an employment lawyer. Without legal guidance, you could miss deadlines, fail to gather necessary evidence, or be taken advantage of by your employer. Filing a complaint with the government involves confusing paperwork. Without a lawyer’s help, you could make unnecessary errors. This could result in not receiving fair compensation or justice for workplace issues like discrimination, wrongful termination, or unpaid wages. A lawyer helps ensure your case is presented strongly and works to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Employment Lawyer in Chicago?

These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that an employment lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many employment lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:

• How have you handled cases like mine?
• What are the potential outcomes of my case? Will I lose my job?
• What is the timeline for my case?
• Are there alternative dispute resolutions available, like mediation or arbitration?
• What is your billing and fee structure?
• How long have you been practicing in Illinois?
• Do you have access to experts who can support my case?
• How do you approach evidence collection?
• What is your approach to negotiations and settlements?
• What will my involvement be during the process?

Tips for Hiring an Employment Lawyer

Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your defense and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do: 

• Ask for recommendations
• Research lawyers online
• Schedule consultations
• Review experience and expertise
• Talk about billing and fees
• Trust your instincts