Gender Discrimination Lawyer in Chicago

You arrive at work each morning wondering if today will be the day your supervisor makes another comment about your “emotional” decision-making style. Or perhaps you’ve watched less qualified male colleagues receive promotions while your achievements go unnoticed. Maybe you’re facing questions about your family plans during performance reviews or experiencing isolation after revealing your gender identity.

These experiences aren’t just unfair—they’re illegal. Gender discrimination in the workplace violates both state and federal law, and you have the right to take action. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we recognize the emotional toll these situations take on employees. We’re here to help you fight back with dignity and determination.

What Is Workplace Gender Discrimination?

Gender discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of their sex. Under Illinois and federal law, “sex” encompasses much more than biological gender; it includes gender identity and pregnancy-related conditions.

This broad definition recognizes that discrimination can target various aspects of your identity. Whether you believe you’re facing bias because you’re a woman in a male-dominated field, experiencing hostility due to your sexual orientation or being penalized for your pregnancy, the law protects your right to equal treatment.

Four Forms of Gender Discrimination

Direct Discrimination

Direct discrimination is often the most obvious form, occurring when you’re explicitly treated differently because of your gender. Examples include being passed over for hiring due to stereotypical views of your gender or being excluded from business meetings due to assumptions about your capabilities.

Indirect Discrimination

Sometimes discrimination hides behind seemingly neutral policies that disproportionately affect one gender. For instance, hiring criteria that screen out one gender or policies that make it harder for pregnant employees to be promoted may indicate disparate impact.

Harassment

Gender-based harassment creates a hostile work environment through unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments about your appearance or sexuality or persistent jokes targeting your gender identity. This behavior doesn’t have to be explicitly sexual. Any conduct that makes your workplace intimidating or offensive because of your gender qualifies.

Retaliation

If you’ve reported gender discrimination or participated in an investigation, your employer cannot punish you. Retaliation might include demotion, reduced hours, negative performance reviews or social isolation by management and colleagues.

What Legal Protections Are Available to Illinois Workers?

Illinois employees benefit from robust protections under both state and federal law. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender identity and pregnancy, applying to employers with just one or more employees. Federal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Pay Act provide additional avenues for justice.

These laws don’t just prohibit obvious discrimination; they also require equal pay for equal work and mandate reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions. Your employer cannot make hiring, firing, promotion or compensation decisions based on your gender or related characteristics.

Your Rights Deserve Protection

You didn’t choose to become a victim of discrimination, but you can choose how to respond. Gender discrimination isn’t just about unfair treatment—it’s about your fundamental right to earn a living without facing prejudice based on who you are. Experienced legal representation can help you through the complex process of holding your employer accountable.

If you’re experiencing different treatment because of your gender, don’t suffer in silence. Contact the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline today to discuss your situation and learn about your legal options. We provide knowledgeable representation designed to meet the specific needs of your case while prioritizing your well-being throughout the process.