Employment and Workplace Law
We help employers set up employment relationships properly and handle them carefully when they change. That covers agreements and policies, executive arrangements, compliance reviews and the documents needed when someone leaves.
Discuss an employment matterWhat does our employment and workplace law practice cover?
Employment law changes often and differs between states and cities. A handbook or contractor arrangement that was fine three years ago, or in another state, may no longer be.
We review what you have, explain where the risk sits and update documents so they reflect current law and how your team works.
Key points
- Employment law follows where an employee works, so remote hires can bring new state rules.
- In Illinois, non-competes are void for employees earning $75,000 or less a year.
- Handbooks and agreements should not contradict each other; employees may rely on the better term.
Services
- Who we advise
- Employers, business owners, executives and organizations managing growing teams.
- What clients usually need
- Appropriate employment documentation, and workplace issues handled in line with applicable law.
- Law we apply
- Illinois Freedom to Work Act (820 ILCS 90)
- Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act (820 ILCS 115)
- Fair Labor Standards Act (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.)
- Defend Trade Secrets Act notice requirement (18 U.S.C. 1833(b))
- Reviewed by
- Amara Okafor, Partner, on
- Employment agreements
- Executive employment arrangements
- Workplace policies and handbooks
- Confidentiality and restrictive covenant agreements, where legally permissible
- Employment compliance reviews
- Employee separation documentation
- Workplace dispute assessment
- Contractor agreement reviews
- Employment-related risk management
Typical situations
Where clients come to us
Examples of the situations we see most often. Each matter is different, so these describe the kind of help available rather than a promised result.
Hiring in a new state
A company is hiring its first employees outside Illinois. We review which local requirements apply and adapt offer letters and policies.
Contractors or employees
A business relies on long-term contractors doing core work. We assess the classification risk and the options for restructuring.
A senior departure
An executive is leaving on uncertain terms. We prepare the separation agreement and review the confidentiality and restrictive covenant obligations that apply.
How we work
Employer-side advice
We advise employers and organizations. We do not represent individual employees in claims against employers.
Current law, checked
Policies and agreements are checked against the law of each state where your people work.
Discreet handling
Sensitive personnel matters are handled by a small, named team.
Useful for a first conversation
- Current offer letters, agreements or handbook
- Where your employees and contractors are based
- A timeline of the issue, if one has arisen
- Any correspondence from the employee or their counsel
Common questions
General questionsAre non-compete agreements enforceable?
It depends on the state, the employee's role and earnings, and how the restriction is drafted. Several states have restricted them significantly. We review enforceability for your specific situation before you rely on one.
How often should we update our handbook?
We suggest an annual review, and an additional review whenever you hire in a new state or the law changes materially.
Do you represent employees?
Our employment practice advises employers. We can suggest how an individual might find employee-side counsel.
Related practice areas
Often handled alongside
Corporate and Business Law
Formation, ownership, governance and the transactions that change a company's shape.
Commercial Disputes and Litigation
Advice and representation in contract, partnership, shareholder and other business disputes.
Startup and Venture Capital Law
Formation, founder arrangements, equity and financing for startups and the investors who back them.
Consultations
Discuss an employment matter
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Submitting an inquiry does not create an attorney-client relationship, and we cannot guarantee that we can take on every matter. If you face an urgent deadline, such as a court filing, please call the office.