What legal actions can employees take against their employers for workplace discrimination in Illinois?

As a lawyer, I can advise that employees who have experienced workplace discrimination in Illinois have several legal options available to them. Illinois law prohibits discrimination based on several protected characteristics, including race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and sexual orientation.

If an employee believes that they have been subjected to workplace discrimination, there are several legal actions that can be taken, including:

1. File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR): Employees who believe that they have been subjected to workplace discrimination can file a complaint with the IDHR. The IDHR investigates claims of discrimination and may take legal action against the employer on behalf of the employee.
2. File a lawsuit: Employees may also choose to file a lawsuit against their employer for workplace discrimination. In Illinois, employees must file a complaint with the IDHR before filing a lawsuit. The employee may file a lawsuit in state or federal court and may be eligible to receive damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages related to the discrimination.
3. Contact an employment lawyer: Employees who are unsure of their legal options or need guidance on how to proceed may benefit from consulting with an employment lawyer. An experienced employment lawyer can provide legal advice and represent the employee in legal proceedings if necessary.

It is important to note that there are limitations and exceptions to the legal actions mentioned above. For example, employees must file a complaint with the IDHR within 300 days of the alleged discrimination, and there may be certain exceptions and defenses available to employers in a lawsuit. Additionally, not all acts of unfair treatment in the workplace rise to the level of illegal discrimination. Employees are strongly encouraged to seek legal advice before taking any legal action to ensure that their rights are properly protected and that they understand the potential outcomes and risks of the action they choose to take.

In summary, employees who have experienced workplace discrimination in Illinois have several legal options available to them, including filing a complaint with the IDHR, filing a lawsuit, or consulting with an employment lawyer. It is important to note the limitations and exceptions to these legal actions and to seek legal advice before taking any legal action.