Employment law can be a tricky area. As employees, we assume that our employers are looking out for our best interests and following the laws. In most cases, they are. However, there are situations in which employers are only looking out for themselves. They may engage in unethical and illegal activities, such as wage theft and discrimination.
Is your employer abiding by the law? Have you experienced something in the workplace that you feel is illegal? Discuss your situation with a Chicago employment lawyer.
Employment Laws You Should Know About
If you work in Illinois, it is important that you are aware of the laws. That way, you can ensure you are treated and paid fairly.
Minimum wage. Under Illinois law, workers over the age of 18 must be paid at least $12 an hour. For those under 18, the minimum wage is set at $11.50 an hour.
Overtime. Unless an employee is classified as salary and therefore exempt from overtime, employees who work more than 40 hours per week must be paid at a rate of time and one-half the regular rate. Therefore, a worker who is typically paid $12 an hour would receive an overtime rate of $18 an hour.
Meals and breaks. Illinois has no law regarding breaks. However, an employee who is scheduled to work at least seven and a half hours must be given a meal period of at least 20 minutes. This meal period must be given to an employee no later than five hours after the work shift starts.
Pay deductions. Employers are only allowed to take deductions required by law (such as taxes) or for employee benefits (such as medical insurance). Employers are not allowed to deduct wages for uniforms, cash register shortages, or broken equipment unless the employee gives written consent.
Vacation. Employers are not required under state law to provide employees with vacation, sick pay, holiday pay, or severance pay. However, if the employer has a policy that offers any of these benefits, the employee is entitled to receive payment upon separation.
Termination. Illinois is an employment-at-will state, meaning an employer or employee may sever their relationship at any time. Neither party has to have a reason to end the employment. However, there are two main exceptions — discrimination and retaliation. Because employment is at will and can be ended at any time, an employee also does not have to give two weeks’ notice, which is often seen as the standard.
Contact Us Today
Both employers and employees have important rights under the law. Make sure you understand what is expected of you and the company for which you work.
Protect these rights with help from a Chicago employment lawyer from The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline. We have sound knowledge of state and federal laws and can help you get justice if your rights have been violated. Fill out the online form or call (312) 558-1454 to schedule a consultation with our office.
