Belleville Disability Discrimination Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Workers in Illinois

Every worker deserves the opportunity to contribute, grow, and feel respected at work. At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we believe strongly in protecting the rights of people with disabilities and fighting so that all workers receive fair and equal treatment. For more than 40 years, our team has helped employees in Belleville and throughout Illinois stand up against discriminatory practices that threaten their livelihoods. When an employer refuses to accommodate your needs, treats you differently because of a disability, or pushes you out of a job entirely, we are prepared to step in and fight for your rights.

Disability discrimination harms not only your career but also your confidence, stability, and sense of fairness. Whether you have a visible disability, a chronic condition, or another medical impairment that affects your work, you have protections under state and federal law, and you deserve a legal team that understands how to enforce them. If you believe you were mistreated because of a disability, we are ready to listen and help you determine the best path forward.

Call us at (314) 819-0963 today to speak with a disability discrimination lawyer serving Belleville, Illinois.

What Constitutes Disability Discrimination in the Workplace?

Disability discrimination occurs when an employer treats you unfairly because you have a physical or mental impairment, a history of such an impairment, or because the employer perceives you as having one. This type of discrimination can affect many aspects of employment, such as hiring, job assignments, training, promotions, benefits, and termination decisions. Employers are required to evaluate your qualifications fairly, without relying on assumptions or stereotypes about your abilities.

In many cases, the law also requires employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” or adjustments that help you perform your job without causing undue hardship to the company. Accommodations might include modified schedules, accessible workspaces, assistive technology, or temporary job restructuring. When an employer refuses to consider accommodations or retaliates against you for requesting them, that conduct may constitute unlawful discrimination.

Common examples of disability discrimination include:

• Denying reasonable accommodation requests without explanation
• Refusing to hire someone because of a disability or medical condition
• Terminating or demoting an employee after learning of a diagnosis
• Making negative or unwelcome comments about limitations or medical needs
• Excluding disabled employees from promotions or training opportunities
• Penalizing workers for taking medical leave associated with their condition
• Retaliating against employees who speak up about their rights

Disability Discrimination Laws That Protect Illinois Workers

Workers in Belleville are protected by both Illinois and federal laws that prohibit disability discrimination. These laws are meant to prevent employers from making decisions based on disability status and require them to provide appropriate accommodations when necessary. They also protect you from retaliation if you assert your rights or request lawful adjustments in the workplace.

Key laws that may protect you include:

• Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA)
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Depending on your circumstances, more than one law may apply. We can help you understand which protections are relevant to your case.

Do You Have a Disability Discrimination Case?