Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Chicago

Empower Yourself Against Workplace Sexual Harassment in Illinois

Experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace is a difficult and unsettling experience, but taking clear steps can help you address the problem and protect your rights. By documenting incidents, using available resources, and understanding your rights under Illinois law, you contribute to a safer and more respectful workplace environment. You are not alone; support is available to help you through this process. 

Unfortunately, sexual harassment impacts workplaces across many industries. Knowing your rights and understanding the right steps to take if you experience harassment is essential in protecting yourself and your career in Chicago. At Workplace Law Partners, we can guide you through every stage of your case, helping you protect yourself and your career with the support of an experienced Chicago sexual harassment attorney.

Here are some steps to take if you experience harassment:

• Recognizing Sexual Harassment: Identifying what qualifies as sexual harassment is crucial. Sexual harassment can include unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments, or any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Trust your instincts and pay attention to conduct that makes you uncomfortable.
• Documenting the Incident: Start documenting details as soon as possible. Record the date, time, location, and a clear description of the incident. List anyone involved, any witnesses, and the effect the incident had on you. A detailed record can be valuable if you take further action.
• Know Your Rights: Learn your rights as an employee. Illinois law and the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance offer legal protection from sexual harassment. Understanding these protections helps you make informed decisions.
• Review Company Policies: Check your company’s anti-harassment policy to understand the procedures for reporting sexual harassment. Identify designated individuals or departments responsible for addressing complaints.
• Report the Incident: When you feel comfortable, report the incident to the proper authority in your workplace. Follow your company’s written procedures and document your report when submitted to HR, email, or by text.
• Seek Support: Sexual harassment can take an emotional toll. Rely on friends, family, or a counselor for support as you navigate the process.
• Contact External Resources: If internal reporting does not resolve the issue, or if you experience retaliation, reach out to the Illinois Human Rights Commission or consider guidance from a sexual harassment attorney in Chicago at Workplace Law Partners.

For experienced guidance, turn to a skilled sexual harassment attorney at Workplace Law Partners. Contact us online or call (312) 818-2407 to secure a consultation.

Understanding Workplace Sexual Harassment Laws in Illinois

Employees in Illinois are protected from sexual harassment by several laws. The Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) safeguards workers from discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, and other protected characteristics. The Illinois Gender Violence Act also provides recourse for women who are victims of sexual assault, such as unwanted touching, sexual violence, or other gender-based offenses.

Recognizing what qualifies as workplace sexual harassment can sometimes be challenging. Examples include inappropriate comments, unwelcome advances, or offensive behavior. Understanding how to report incidents and what your legal rights are makes it easier to pursue justice when you face harassment.

Consulting a sexual harassment attorney in Chicago can help you learn about your available options, navigate legal processes, and advocate for your rights, whether the harassment comes from a coworker, supervisor, or another person at your job. Legal support can make a difference in how you approach your choices and outcomes.

Chicago sexual harassment lawyers assist with the many challenges that can arise in workplace disputes, ensuring that you have the latest information about your rights. You have the right to work in a safe and respectful setting free from harassment in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

Businesses in Chicago must follow city-specific sexual harassment policies, which require annual prevention training for employees and require employers to display anti-harassment policy notices clearly in the workplace. If your job is based in Chicago or Cook County, there may be unique requirements and remedies available to you under local law, and certain agencies—such as the Chicago Commission on Human Relations—may handle claims filed within the city limits.

What to Expect When You Contact a Sexual Harassment Attorney in Chicago

When you contact a sexual harassment attorney in Chicago, your case typically begins with a confidential consultation. During the first meeting, you will share details about the incidents, provide any records or evidence, and describe your work environment. A qualified attorney listens to your situation and explains the relevant laws under both Illinois statutes and Chicago local ordinances.

Legal counsel will help you collect the necessary details about what happened, identify supporting witnesses, and review any company policy violations. Throughout your case, you can expect transparent communication about the next steps, possible timelines, and documentation that could strengthen your position.

As your case progresses, your attorney may explain how local agencies, such as the Chicago Commission on Human Relations or the Illinois Department of Human Rights, might process your claim. Regular updates and practical guidance are part of the experience. Our team at Workplace Law Partners focuses on building your confidence through clear, honest communication every step of the way.

Types of Compensation & Remedies Available in Chicago

Individuals seeking to hold employers accountable for sexual harassment in Chicago may become eligible for several forms of compensation. The law recognizes not only lost wages and job-related benefits but also financial recovery for emotional distress and other harm resulting from workplace harassment. Both Illinois statutes and municipal ordinances provide paths to remedy the effects of harassment.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, the following forms of relief may apply:

• Back pay and lost benefits: Reimbursement for lost wages, salary, or employee benefits caused by harassment or job loss.
• Compensation for emotional harm: Financial recovery for anxiety, distress, or psychological effects due to the misconduct.
• Job reinstatement: In some situations, returning to a position after wrongful termination or a coerced resignation is an option.
• Policy changes at your workplace: Some cases result in a requirement for the employer to revise policies, improve procedures, or provide better training.
• Attorney’s fees and costs: In select circumstances, prevailing claimants may recover some or all legal expenses under applicable law.

Chicago law authorizes certain local remedies not available elsewhere in Illinois, and city agencies may monitor compliance with required workplace training and reporting. Attorneys in this region can review what forms of compensation and remedies apply to your case and discuss the timing for each type of claim. At Workplace Law Partners, we rely on our years of experience with claims throughout Cook County and greater Chicago to help you navigate your options.

Statute of Limitations for Sexual Harassment

The statute of limitations under Illinois law for sexual harassment extends up to four years for claims involving physical conduct under the Illinois Gender Violence Act, substantially longer than deadlines for many other types of employment discrimination claims with the Illinois Department of Human Rights or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Acting within these timelines is critical. Starting early helps preserve evidence and witness accounts. A Chicago sexual harassment lawyer can help you better understand relevant deadlines and ensure you can pursue available remedies before any window closes.

Take Action Against Workplace Sexual Harassment and Abuse

Sexual harassment in the workplace presents serious challenges, but when you take clear action and seek the support you need, you protect both your rights and your future. Learning about your legal protections, keeping good documentation, and finding the right resources contribute to a safer workplace and can lead to lasting change.

Both adult and child sexual abuse carry lifelong effects, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In many instances, these harms happen in trusted environments like schools, camps, or even religious institutions. While the criminal justice system serves to hold offenders accountable for criminal acts, the civil legal system also makes it possible to pursue financial compensation for physical and emotional damages.

Pursuing a civil claim allows survivors to hold perpetrators accountable and seek the resources needed for recovery. The civil process can provide a path to healing and greater security in the future.

If sexual abuse or harassment happened at your job, you might have options under the Illinois Gender Violence Act. This law provides that victims can seek compensation for assaults or batteries committed because of their sex, whether or not criminal charges move forward. Civil actions can target not only direct offenders but also individuals who encouraged or assisted in the wrongful act.

Cases involving sexual abuse or harassment often create stress and uncertainty. At Workplace Law Partners, we guide clients through each step—explaining deadlines, helping organize documentation, and keeping you informed as the case progresses in Chicago courts and agencies. Our team focuses on making the experience as clear and supportive as possible, using our extensive experience in Cook County employment law to guide you through the process. We communicate regularly with you, so you always know where your case stands.

Our Sexual Harassment and Abuse Cases

We represented R. Kelly victim of sexual abuse and harassment. Handling sexual harassment cases can be complicated, involving legal, social, and personal considerations. At Workplace Law Partners, we approach each client with sensitivity and develop strategies tailored to each individual’s circumstances, ensuring clients have their story heard and their rights asserted.

We represented a professional sports coach relating to retaliation for opposing sexual assault. Read more:

• Couple settles sexual assault case with Pittsburgh Penguins (espn.com)
• Penguins settle suit over ex-minors coach accused of assault | The Seattle Times Penguins Settle Lawsuits by Former Coach Skalde and Wife (pittsburghhockeynow.com)

Attorney David Fish has been interviewed about sexual harassment cases and how confidentiality agreements can perpetuate abuse. 

• Listen to the podcast here to learn more: Employee to Lawyer Podcast | An Employment Law Podcast By NELA Illinois - PodRiver

We also provide sexual harassment prevention training for employers. For example, we have trained Illinois State Bar Association members on sexual harassment prevention. These seminars promote healthier work environments and help employers comply with annual prevention training required by the Illinois Workplace Transparency Act (Public Act 101-0220). 

• To watch a replay, click here: LIVE WEB - Sexual Harassment Prevention Training - Video Replay 2 | Illinois State Bar Association | (isba.org)

FAQ: Common Questions About Sexual Harassment in Chicago

What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

Sexual harassment in the workplace includes a range of unwelcome behaviors of a sexual nature that create a hostile or offensive environment. This includes unwanted advances, suggestive remarks, or the display or sharing of sexually explicit material. Employees in Chicago can rely on state and local protections that allow them to report and challenge these actions without fear of retaliation.

How Can a Sexual Harassment Attorney in Chicago Assist Me?

Consulting a sexual harassment lawyer in Chicago can demystify complex legal processes and provide step-by-step support. Attorneys help clients document incidents, assess legal options, and, when appropriate, support negotiation or pursue action in court. Attorneys serve as advocates for your rights from beginning to end.

What Steps Should I Take After Experiencing Sexual Harassment?

First, ensure your own safety and start keeping a detailed record of what happened. Note dates, times, and any witnesses. Report the harassment through your workplace’s established procedures and keep all related documentation. Consult a Chicago Sexual Harassment Attorney to discuss your rights and the options available for your unique situation. Contact Workplace Law Partners right away.

How Does the Illinois Human Rights Act Protect Workers in Chicago?

The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex and other characteristics, ensuring workers in Chicago can seek recourse for unlawful conduct. This act gives employees the right to bring claims and seek remedies if they are harassed at work.

Connect with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer in Chicago without delay. Dial (312) 818-2407 or submit an online form to get started.