Reasonable Accommodations in Chicago

You’re determined to excel despite the challenges your disability presents. Yet your employer seems oblivious to the simple modifications that could make your job not just manageable, but allow you to thrive. The frustration builds as you struggle with barriers that the law explicitly prohibits. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we understand the daily struggles you face when employers fail to provide the accommodations you need and deserve. We work tirelessly for employees throughout the Chicago metropolitan area who have been denied their fundamental rights in the workplace. Your dignity matters, and we’re here to protect it.

What Are Reasonable Accommodations?

Reasonable accommodations are changes or adjustments designed to help employees with disabilities perform their job responsibilities efficiently and effectively. Under federal laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Illinois state laws, including the Illinois Human Rights Act, employers have a legal obligation to provide these accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship to their business operations.

The law doesn’t just protect you after you’re hired; it extends to every stage of employment, from interviews and pre-employment testing to training and daily work responsibilities.

Types of Reasonable Accommodations

Understanding the different categories of accommodations can help you identify what you need and communicate effectively with your employer.

Restructuring and Modification Accommodations

These involve changes to your work environment or job duties:

• Providing wheelchair-accessible desks and workstations
• Rearranging office furniture to create clear pathways
• Removing non-essential tasks from your job description
• Offering flexible scheduling for medical appointments or medication needs

Technological and Accessibility Accommodations

Technology can bridge many gaps in the workplace:

• Dictation and text-to-speech software
• Telephone amplifiers for hearing difficulties
• Specialized keyboards, including Braille options
• Apps that stream audio directly to hearing aids
• Ergonomic chairs and equipment

Assistive Accommodations

Sometimes you may need additional support personnel:

• Sign language interpreters for meetings
• Readers for visual impairments
• Transportation assistance when required

The Accommodation Process

How to Request Your Accommodation

The Illinois Department of Health and Human Services provides official accessibility request forms that you can present to your employer. Your healthcare provider may need to complete a Physician’s Medical Review form to certify your need for accommodations without revealing confidential medical details.

Your Employer’s Legal Responsibilities

Once you request an accommodation, your employer must engage in what’s called an “interactive process.” They cannot simply ignore your request or make assumptions about what you can or cannot do. They must work with you to find reasonable solutions that allow you to perform your job.

When Your Request Is Denied

If your employer refuses to provide reasonable accommodations or claims they would cause “undue hardship,” you don’t have to accept this decision without question. The definition of undue hardship is quite narrow; it must involve significant difficulty or expense relative to the employer’s resources and operations.

Retaliation for requesting accommodations is illegal. If you face harassment, demotion, termination or other adverse actions after making your request, you have additional legal protections.

How Employees Can Protect Their Rights

Your disability doesn’t define your worth or limit your potential contributions to your workplace. When employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations, they’re not just breaking the law; they’re denying you the opportunity to demonstrate your value.

The deadlines for filing complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) are strict, making prompt action essential. Don’t wait while your situation deteriorates or your rights are further violated.

Contact an Attorney for Professional Assistance

At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we bring years of experience in disability discrimination cases and a deep understanding of the challenges you face. We treat every case with the respect and compassion it deserves because we know that behind every legal issue is a person whose dignity and livelihood are at stake. Contact us today to discuss your situation. You deserve a workplace that recognizes your abilities and provides the support you need to succeed.