Employment Law

JKLF attorneys have experience in all employment-related matters.  JKLF attorneys have handled cases ranging from individual employee discrimination claims to class action lawsuits in industries such as transportation, construction, distribution, manufacturing, retail, and insurance.  Like all of our practice departments, we evaluate each case to determine the best litigation strategy and whether pursuing litigation is in the best interest of our client.  JKLF has successfully defended employers based on defamation, breach of employment contract, retaliatory discharge, trade secret claims, workers’ compensation, and wrongful termination.  We have defended claims brought under civil rights and labor statutes, including the Americans with Disability Act, Age Discrimination, Employment Act, Equal Pay Act, Family Medical Leave Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act, Sections 1981 and 1983 of the Civil Rights Act, Title VII, and the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.  

A specialized part of our practice is assisting clients in reducing the risk of lawsuits.  We evaluate and prepare Employee Handbooks, Employee Contracts, and Employee Manuals with policies and procedures.  JKLF also regularly trains clients on various issues in employment law to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities.  JKLF also routinely is involved in OSHA inspections for clients after catastrophic losses.  We represent clients in audits by the Department of Labor and the Illinois Department of Employment Security.  We regularly perform training for employers for sexual harassment, racial discrimination, and other employer-mandated compliance issues.