Litigating, Defending, and Preventing Employment Discrimination Cases: Practice Updates for the Illinois Human Rights Act
March 15, 2012
9:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
5.25 MCLE hours, including 1.00 approved Professional Responsibility MCLE credit hours
Presented by Human Rights
Chicago
ISBA Chicago Regional Office
20 S. Clark Street, Suite 900
(map and directions)
Review the latest information in employment discrimination cases under the
Illinois Human Rights Act!
Although the Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in a number of areas – including housing, public accommodations, and access to credit – most cases involve employment discrimination. Because of this, it is imperative that labor and employment attorneys – as well as civil rights practitioners – keep abreast of this ever-changing arena. This full-day seminar gradually progresses from basic to advanced topics, making it the perfect fit for attorneys, regardless of practice experience. Topics include: the role of the Illinois Department of Human Rights; responsibilities of the Illinois Commission on Human Rights; recent changes, developments and current practices in employment law; eliminating the risk of litigation; employment manuals and employee training programs; traps for the unwary; and filing your case with the Illinois Department of Human Rights. The ethical issues that may arise throughout a discrimination case are also examined.
Please Note: Prior to the program, you will receive a weblink via email allowing you to access the course materials prior to the program. You will also receive a copy of the course materials (for no additional charge) when you arrive at the program, but will need to check the appropriate box on the registration page letting us know if you prefer a flash drive or printed course book.
Program Coordinator:
Thomas A. Bruno, Thomas A Bruno & Associates, Urbana
Program Moderator:
Michael J. Maslanka, Sacks, Goreczny, Maslanka, & Costello, P.C., Chicago
Agenda
9:00 – 9:15 a.m. Overview: Illinois Human Rights Act
This basic overview offers a look at the Illinois Human Rights Act, including the roles of the Illinois Department of Human Rights, the responsibilities of the Illinois Human Rights Commission, and what to expect on judicial review.
Prof. Joanne Simboli Hodge, The John Marshall Law School, Chicago
9:15 – 10:15 a.m. Illinois Department of Human Rights: A Basic Overview and Practice Tips
Gain a better understanding of the historical relevance behind the Illinois Department of Human Rights’ existence, as well as valuable insights on recent changes and current practices under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
Donyelle L. Gray, Illinois Human Rights Commission, Chicago
10:15 – 10:30 a.m. Break (beverages provided)
10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Basic Practice Tips for Plaintiffs and Defendants
This segment offers basic practice tips, including what employers need to know about the Illinois Human Rights Act, how to eliminate risks of litigation, employment manual and employee training program changes, traps for the unwary, and the “best practices” for those bringing charges under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
Peter M. LaSorsa, The Law Offices of Peter LaSorsa, Chicago
Meagan C. LeGear, Baker & McKenzie LLP, Chicago
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ethical Considerations in Discrimination Cases*
This presentation explores the basic ethical conundrums and issues that may emerge in discrimination cases and offers tips and advice for avoiding unethical behavior.
Melissa Smart, Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission, Chicago
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Advanced Practice Tips for Plaintiffs and Defendants
This advanced overview offers a deeper look at the Illinois Human Rights Act, as well as the more sophisticated employment issues that can arise in the workplace. Employee manuals, employee training programs, and eliminating litigation risks are discussed in greater detail.
Peter M. LaSorsa, The Law Offices of Peter LaSorsa, Chicago
Meagan C. LeGear, Baker & McKenzie LLP, Chicago
2:00 – 2:30 p.m. Advanced Ethical Considerations in Discrimination Cases*
This presentation explores the advanced ethical issues and concerns that may emerge in discrimination cases and offers best practice tips for avoiding unethical behavior.
Melissa Smart, Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission, Chicago
2:30 – 2:45 p.m. Break (refreshments provided)
2:45 – 3:15 p.m. Recent Federal and State Developments in Employment Law
Discover the recent developments in employment law, including what happens to your federal remedies if you file a case with the Illinois Department of Human Rights. The recent changes in federal and state laws that may affect employment discrimination cases are also examined.
Donyelle L. Gray, Illinois Human Rights Commission, Chicago
3:15 – 3:45 p.m. Panel Discussion
Take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions and/or discuss some of the highlighted issues further with our panel of presenters. All speakers will be present.