You have the right to speak up at work. If you reported a problem or asked for something you were owed, your employer cannot punish you for that. If your job got harder or worse after you spoke up, the law may be on your side.
Many workers go through this without knowing they can do anything about it. We are here to help you understand your options. Call us today for a free consultation.
Standing Up Against Unlawful Workplace Retaliation
Many workers stay quiet about problems at work because they are scared of losing their jobs. That fear makes sense, but the law protects you when you do the right thing. You should not have to choose between your job and your rights.
We have helped many workers who were treated badly after they spoke up at work. We look into what happened to you, gather the evidence we need, and fight to ensure your employer is held responsible.
What Is Workplace Retaliation?
Workplace retaliation happens when your employer treats you badly because you did something the law says you are allowed to do. It can look different in every case. Sometimes it is a pay cut or a demotion. Other times, it is being left out of meetings or being given harder tasks. In some cases, it leads to losing your job.
If things at work got worse after you took a protected action, there may be a connection worth looking into. We help you determine whether your employer crossed a legal line.
What Actions Are Legally Protected at Work?
If you did any of the following and your employer responded by treating you worse, you may have a strong case:
- Filing a workers’ compensation claim after getting hurt on the job
- Reporting discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, or disability
- Taking part in an EEOC investigation related to a discrimination complaint
- Asking coworkers about pay to make sure you are being paid fairly
- Asking for overtime or the minimum wage you are legally owed.
- Filing a sexual harassment claim against a coworker or supervisor
- Requesting leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act
- Reporting unsafe working conditions to the right authorities
- Asking for a reasonable accommodation for a disability
- Reporting illegal actions by your employer
- Refusing to take part in discrimination against other employees
What Laws Protect Retaliation Victims in Illinois?
Workers in Illinois are protected from retaliation by both state and federal laws. The Illinois Human Rights Act stops employers from punishing workers who report discrimination or stand up for their rights. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act gives workers the same protections at the federal level.
Workers who report unsafe conditions are also protected under federal safety laws. Those who file wage complaints are protected under the Fair Labour Standards Act. We know how to use all of these laws to build the strongest case for you.
What Should You Do If You Face Retaliation at Work?
If you think your employer is punishing you for something you had every right to do, start writing things down right away. Keep a record of every incident, noting the date, time, and names of anyone involved.
Save any emails or messages that show how your employer has been treating you. Report what is happening to your human resources department and keep a copy for yourself. Then reach out to our team so we can start looking at your case.
How Our Retaliation Attorneys Fight for You
Employers often try to hide retaliation by blaming it on your work performance or a business decision. We look past those excuses and find the real reason behind what happened to you.
We build strong cases with solid evidence and fight hard to ensure your employer faces real consequences. You should never have to pay a price for doing the right thing at work.
Ready to Take Action?
If your employer has been treating you worse after you stood up for your rights, do not wait. There are deadlines for filing retaliation claims, and the sooner you act, the better your chances of getting a fair outcome.
We offer a free consultation to every client, and you pay nothing unless we win. Call us today and let us help you get the outcome you deserve.