State Court
Claims of discrimination and harassment may be brought based on the laws of the state of Illinois. The Illinois Human Rights Commission (IHRC) is the body presently authorized to hear employment discrimination and harassment cases based on the laws of the state of Illinois. In order to bring a case of discrimination to the IHRC, one must first file a charge with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. The IDHR will investigate the allegations in the charge, and depending on the conclusion of its investigation, a complaint will be filed with the IHRC on behalf of the victim. Cases at the IHRC are heard by Administrative Law Judges. No jury trial is available. Appeals of decisions of the Illinois Human Rights Commission are heard in Illinois state courts.