Can You be Fired for No Reason in Illinois?

Getting fired from your job is one of the worst things that can happen. Generally, employers in Illinois do not need to give you a reason. However, our Chicago wrongful termination attorneys explain situations in which you could be entitled to get your job back, or at least compensation for losses you suffer.

Getting Fired in an At-Will Employment State

Under Illinois labor laws, we are what is referred to as an at-will employment state. This generally means that employers can fire you for any reason, or even for no reason at all. At-will employment gives employers freedom in managing their workforce and provides other benefits:

It allows them to change work policies and procedures whenever they want;
It allows them to freely move people to other positions as needed;
It allows them to make major changes in scheduling and hours as desired;
It prevents them from having to provide wage increases or benefits.

Being able to fire employees at will and without any advance notice or written warnings can save employers significant amounts of money. However, there are some limitations. If you sign an employee contract, the employer must honor the terms. They can also not fire you if doing so is in violation of your human rights or state and federal laws.

Reasons Your Firing Could be a Wrongful Termination

The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) warns that employers must adhere to human rights laws prohibiting them from firing or discriminating against employees based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, military service, or unfavorable military discharge. Firing someone as the result of any of the above is considered wrongful termination.

In a wrongful termination, the employee may be entitled to file a claim against the employer, seeking reinstatement to their job or an equal position as well as reimbursement for lost wages, and compensation for any other costs incurred as a result. A wrongful termination claim could also be filed if your employer fires you for any of the following reasons:

For refusing to violate state laws in the course of your job;
For reporting criminal activity on the part of the employer or others involved;
For refusing to work in discriminatory, harassing, or unsafe conditions and for reporting violations;
For performing required military service or exercising statutory rights, such as submitting a workers’ compensation claim.

Speak With Our Chicago Wrongful Termination Attorney Today

At The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we provide the trusted legal guidance you need if you get fired from your job. To speak with our Chicago wrongful termination attorney regarding your rights in filing a claim, call or contact our office online today.