Wrongful termination occurs when you’re fired for illegal reasons, despite Illinois being an at-will employment state. You cannot be terminated for discriminatory reasons based on legally protected characteristics like gender, age or race. Additionally, firing you for exercising legal rights, like filing workers’ compensation claims, reporting safety violations or taking family leave, violates the law. If your termination appears connected to protected activities or discriminatory motives, you may have grounds for legal action.
Wrongful/Unlawful Termination
Chicago Wrongful and Unlawful Termination Attorney
Wrongful or unfair termination occurs when an employee loses his or her job for an invalid reason, and our wrongful termination attorney in Chicago knows what the courts consider to be an invalid reason. An employee may also be a victim of wrongful termination if an employer gives one reason for firing the employee, but the employee believes that the true reason is something different, unfair and inexcusable. Our Chicago wrongful termination lawyer knows that the law protects victims of wrongful dismissal. If you were fired for an unfair reason or because of retaliation, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline to speak with a seasoned Chicago wrongful termination lawyer today.
What to do if you are wrongfully terminated in metropolitan Chicago
If you lost your job and the circumstances may result in a wrongful termination claim, our Chicago employment law attorney is here to help. We walk you through the legal process from beginning to end to your complete satisfaction. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, follow these guidelines:
- Write down a timeline of the events leading up to the termination.
- Did you see any warning signs?
- Were other employees laid off?
- Did your boss mention wanting to downsize or rearrange the company or cut costs?
- As you remember it, write down exactly what reason your boss provided for terminating your employment.
- Did your boss mention a reason that was news to you?
- Did something your boss say strike you as discriminatory or degrading?
- Take note of what happened after you were wrongfully terminated.
- Was your supervisor apologetic, angry or regretful?
- Did you complain that you think the reason for termination was not fair?
- Did you make any attempts to try to keep your job?
- Was your position filled with someone with lesser qualifications or someone who would accept a lower wage?
- How much money have you lost as a result of the wrongful termination?
- Contact our reputable wrongful termination lawyer in Chicago today for a FREE initial consultation to discuss the specifics of your case
Call our wrongful termination lawyer in Chicago today
If you may be the victim of wrongful termination, contact The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline today for a free initial consultation with our wrongful termination attorney in Chicago.
FAQs About Wrongful Termination in Illinois
What constitutes wrongful termination in Illinois?
What should I do immediately after being wrongfully terminated?
Take swift action to protect your legal rights and preserve crucial evidence. Document everything about your termination, including the stated reasons, timing and circumstances leading up to your firing. Gather performance reviews, emails, witness contact information, and company policies. File for unemployment benefits immediately and keep detailed records of your job search expenses. Most importantly, consult with a wrongful termination attorney promptly; evidence disappears quickly, and strict deadlines govern legal claims.
How do I prove my termination was discriminatory?
Proving discrimination requires demonstrating that your protected characteristic played a role in your termination decision. Look for patterns showing different treatment compared to similarly situated employees outside your protected class. Timing is crucial. Terminations following discrimination complaints, pregnancy announcements or disability disclosures raise red flags. Document any discriminatory comments, unequal enforcement of policies or suspicious changes in treatment.
Do I need a lawyer for my wrongful termination case?
While not legally required, having experienced legal representation dramatically improves your chances of success in wrongful termination cases. Employment law is complex, with intricate procedural requirements, strict deadlines and sophisticated legal standards. Employers typically have experienced attorneys defending them; you need equally skilled representation to level the playing field.
How can the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline help with my wrongful termination case?
At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we provide the personalized attention your case deserves. We thoroughly investigate every aspect of your termination, identify all legal violations and build compelling cases that maximize your recovery. Our proven track record includes substantial settlements and verdicts that have delivered justice for wrongfully terminated employees throughout Chicago.
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Mitch obviously is well experienced in his field and initially set my expectations properly which is one of the most important things I believe in. He navigated all of the processes in order to facilitate a successful outcome for me. I don't write very many reviews unless they are warranted,...