Protections For Midcareer Workers And Businesses
Workers who devote themselves to a company have the right to expect a certain amount of security in their employment even as they age. Because businesses benefit from experience and improved morale and productivity when employees know they can rely on a company’s promises, employers should refrain from discharging mature workers simply on the basis of age. Unfortunately, enlightened self-interest is not always enough to keep a company from arbitrary and detrimental policies. Fortunately, workers ages 40 and older have legal protections.
Chicago Discrimination Attorneys Fight Ageism
For over 30 years, our Chicago discrimination attorneys at Goldman & Ehrlich have fought on the side of mature workers to ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967, the law forbids discrimination in hiring, firing, salary, job assignments, promotions, layoffs, training, fringe benefits and any other term or condition of employment. It also prohibits harassment of an employee based on their age. Similar to sexual harassment, this treatment might include teasing or derisive comments that are so pervasive that they create a hostile working environment. The Age Discrimination Act of 1975 prohibits age discrimination in federally assisted programs and activities. These include education, home loans, and grants to the arts and humanities, to name a few.
Individualized Attention From Experienced Partner Attorneys
If you have been the target of age discrimination, Goldman & Ehrlich can help. Our lawyers provide in-depth consultation to discern the particular circumstances of your cause of action. They investigate your employer’s human resources practices to uncover patterns of behavior that might help your case. They have vast experience negotiating settlements, including reinstatement and monetary damages, and litigating claims before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) and the Illinois Human Rights Commission as well as in state and federal courts.
Staunch Defense For Accused Businesses
An employee who is 40 years or older is not immune from being disciplined or terminated. Before disciplining or terminating an employee protected by the ADEA, however, you should consult with one of our attorneys at Goldman & Ehrlich to make sure that your actions will not be viewed as discriminatory. We can defend companies accused of age discrimination.
Your Age Is Not A Valid Reason For Discrimination
If you have been the target of age discrimination or are facing a claim against your company, Goldman & Ehrlich can help. Call us at 312-332-6733 or contact our Chicago office online.