Chicago Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyers
You deserve a workplace free from harassment.
No employee in Chicago should have to endure sexual harassment or assault at work. When it happens, it violates both Illinois and federal law, threatening your career, your mental health, and your dignity.
At 1818 Litigation Attorneys, we stand up for employees like you. We fight to hold employers accountable, stop illegal behavior, and recover the compensation and justice you deserve.
If you’ve been harassed, assaulted, or retaliated against for reporting misconduct, our Chicago workplace sexual harassment lawyers are ready to help.
What is Considered Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Under the Illinois Human Rights Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, sexual harassment is unlawful conduct based on your gender, sexual orientation, or another protected characteristic.
Two common forms of sexual harassment include:
- Quid Pro Quo: A manager or supervisor demands sexual favors in exchange for job benefits like promotions, raises, or favorable evaluations.
- Hostile Work Environment: Repeated unwanted comments, jokes, or behavior that make the workplace intimidating, abusive, or offensive, such as lewd remarks, inappropriate touching, or displaying explicit material.
Examples of harassment we see in Chicago workplaces include:
- Unwanted advances or physical contact from a coworker or supervisor
- Requests for sexual favors in return for career advancement
- Explicit jokes, texts, or images circulated at work
- A pattern of behavior that makes you feel unsafe or humiliated
What About Workplace Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is a severe form of harassment involving non‑consensual sexual contact. This includes:
- Groping or unwanted touching
- Coercion by a supervisor or coworker
- Rape or attempted rape on the job
In Illinois, sexual assault is both a criminal offense and grounds for civil action. You may pursue both criminal charges against the offender and a civil lawsuit against your employer if they failed to prevent or address the assault.
Your Rights Under Illinois Sexual Harassment Laws
Illinois law protects employees at every level. Employers are legally required to provide a safe environment and respond appropriately when harassment is reported.
Employers can be held liable when:
- A supervisor or manager is the harasser (strict liability applies).
- The employer knew or should have known about harassment and failed to act.
- A third party—like a contractor or customer—harasses you, and the employer doesn’t intervene.
For a successful claim, you generally need to show that the harassment was severe or pervasive and that it negatively affected your work environment or led to an adverse action like termination or demotion.
Retaliation for Reporting Harassment Is Illegal
Many victims stay silent because they fear retaliation. But Illinois and federal law strictly prohibit employers from punishing you for making a harassment complaint. Retaliation can include:
- Firing, demotion, or reduced hours
- Denying promotions or benefits
- Hostile treatment after you report harassment
If you’ve experienced retaliation, you may have a separate legal claim in addition to your harassment case.
What Should You Do If You Are Sexually Harassed at Work?
If you’re experiencing harassment or assault in the workplace, take these steps immediately to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of every incident, including dates, times, people involved, witnesses, emails, and messages. Save copies of your employment documents, reviews, and pay stubs.
- Report the Harassment: Follow your company’s reporting process. Notify HR or a supervisor in writing and keep a copy of every communication.
- Contact an Attorney: If your employer ignores your complaint or retaliates, reach out to our Chicago workplace sexual harassment lawyers. We can guide you through the process of filing with the EEOC or IDHR and pursuing legal action.
How 1818 Litigation Attorneys Can Help
At 1818, we don’t just know employment law—we know how to fight for you.
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We review your documentation and assess your best legal options.
- Filing Complaints and Claims: We help you file with the appropriate state or federal agency and ensure deadlines are met.
- Aggressive Representation: We negotiate with employers and pursue litigation when necessary to recover damages and secure justice.
- Protecting Your Reputation: We use proven communication strategies to shield your professional name while your case is ongoing.
Our Chicago-based team has extensive experience in Illinois employment law. When you work with us, you get a firm that understands how employers operate—and how to hold them accountable.
Damages You May Recover
Victims of workplace sexual harassment or assault may be entitled to:
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits
- Emotional distress and pain and suffering damages
- Attorneys’ fees and legal costs
- Punitive damages to deter future misconduct
- Reinstatement or promotion if your career was impacted
- Policy changes or injunctive relief to protect others in the workplace
FAQs About Sexual Harassment in Chicago Workplaces
Can I sue my employer for sexual harassment in Chicago?
Yes. Both Illinois and federal law allow you to sue your employer if they failed to prevent or address harassment.
What if the harassment came from a client or vendor, not an employee?
Illinois law (775 ILCS 5/2‑102(D)) holds employers responsible for harassment by non‑employees if they knew about it and failed to take action.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Most EEOC charges must be filed within 300 days of the harassment. Deadlines can vary, so contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Will my employer know if I speak with a lawyer?
No. Your consultation with us is completely confidential.
What if I’ve already left my job?
You can still pursue a claim if the harassment or retaliation happened during your employment.
Resources for Victims
You’re not alone. In addition to working with our team, these organizations can provide help:
- Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault – Free, confidential support and advocacy (217‑753‑4117)
- Illinois Attorney General’s Office – Guidance for victims of discrimination (877‑378‑5465)
- National Sexual Assault Hotline – 24/7 support (800‑656‑4673)
Speak With a Chicago Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer Today
You deserve to feel safe and respected at work. If you’ve been subjected to sexual harassment or assault, 1818 Litigation Attorneys is here to fight for you. We understand the laws, we know the system, and we are relentless in protecting employees’ rights.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you hold your employer accountable and move forward with dignity.
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Business License Defense Practice Areas Explained
Home Inspectors
Home inspectors must meet specific IDFPR requirements to practice in Illinois, and failing to comply with Illinois’ Home Inspector License Act and the rules within can lead to investigations, disciplinary action, and the loss of your professional license.
1818 specializes in helping Illinois home inspectors minimize disciplinary action and defend their licenses.
As a full-service law firm, 1818 will handle everything from initial investigations to administrative hearings and appeals on your behalf. Our attorneys will leverage years of IDFPR and government experience to provide the help you need.
Protect Your Home Inspection License
Roofing Professionals
The Illinois Attorney General’s office receives thousands of complaints every year from homeowners involved in disputes with home repair contractors, including roofing professionals. These disputes can lead to IDFPR investigations and other government interventions that threaten your professional license and ability to perform contractor work in Illinois.
Roofing professionals facing disputes, investigations, or other challenges need an experienced license defense attorney who can negotiate effectively and protect your ability to make a living.
The 1818 team has years of successful experience in professional license defense that includes an intimate knowledge of IDFPR and how licensing regulations apply to contractors. Before you speak to a government investigator or agency, call 1818 to protect your rights.
Protect Your Roofing License
Architects and professional design organizations that practice in Illinois must meet rigorous standards and adhere to strict guidelines to maintain their licenses. If those criteria are not met, you could risk losing your license or facing disciplinary action — especially if you don’t have legal representation.
The 1818 team can help you navigate IDFPR’s complex regulatory framework and protect your license and career with a personalized strategy. Don’t wait until it’s too late — safeguard your future as an architect or designer by contacting 1818 before you respond to any government inquiry.
Protect Your Professional Design License
Real Estate
IDFPR regulates dozens of real estate roles, from brokers and leasing agents to appraisers, land sales developers, timeshare managers, and education providers. All of these roles are subject to agency oversight and disciplinary action for lack of compliance.
Instead of taking on IDFPR alone, contact the experienced attorneys at 1818 for your professional real estate license defense. Our team has successfully represented real estate professionals in IDFPR cases for years, and in some cases, an investigation or review can be cleared up without impacting your ability to work.
Protect Your Real Estate License
Other Business Licenses
Business licenses in the state of Illinois are subject to dozens of laws, statutes, and regulations. If you’re an Illinois business owner at risk of losing your professional license or livelihood, you should have an experienced IDFPR attorney by your side to minimize disciplinary actions and prevent the situation from getting any worse.
1818 is the team you need for any and all business license defense in Illinois. Led by founding principal and former IDFPR section supervisor Jordan Matyas, 1818 is dedicated to helping licensed professionals like you get the help you need and protect your rights.
Protect Your Business License
Illinois Business License Defense FAQ
What are my legal options after receiving a complaint notice in Illinois?
After receiving a complaint or letter of investigation, you can attempt to respond to the allegations independently or you can contact a professional license defense attorney to defend you and your license.
Do I really need a business license defense attorney in Illinois?
Absolutely. Do not seek help from the investigator or any other IDFPR personnel. The most important thing to remember is that the IDFPR’s top priority is to protect the public. They have no interest in assisting you in defending your license. We do.
Call 1818 now. We recommend getting legal representation from an experienced and dedicated business license defense attorney as soon as possible.
What happens if I don’t respond to IDFPR?
Failure to respond to a complaint will result in adverse action against your business license. Ignoring the complaint ensures that your license will be suspended or revoked. Ignoring the issue won’t make it go away. Instead, contact a business license defense attorney immediately.
My business license application was denied. What now?
If you have applied for an Illinois business license and are denied by the IDFPR, they will send you a Notice of Intent to Deny. You will have a short time to contest the denial. If you decide to contest, an informal conference or evidentiary hearing will be held to get your license back on track.
Your attorney can help you throughout the process and ensure you get the best possible outcome in your case.
Hire 1818 Litigation Attorneys to navigate your legal needs and government goals.
Our firm uses unique tactics and strategies for Illinois corporations, professionals, and communities.
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