(312) 763-6880

Caffarelli & Associates LtD

News

1 minute read

Trauma Informed Lawyering in Workplace Sexual Harassment and Abuse Cases

Published

At Caffarelli & Associates, we take great care in representing survivors of workplace sexual harassment and abuse. We understand that coming forward about sexual misconduct at work is not only a legal step, but a deeply personal one. Many survivors carry the effects of trauma long after the harassment or assault occurs.

We approach every case with care, respect, and sensitivity. Trauma-informed advocacy means we recognize the impact that workplace harassment and assault can have on a person. We prioritize creating a supportive environment where our clients feel heard and empowered.

Importantly, survivors should not assume that it is “too late” to seek help. The laws addressing sexual harassment and assault account for claims to be brought well after the misconduct occurred. Each situation is different, and speaking with an attorney at our firm can help clarify what legal options may still be available.

If you or someone you know has experienced workplace harassment or assault, Caffarelli & Associates is here to help you understand your options in a safe and confidential setting.

By Whitney L. Barr, Caffarelli & Associates Ltd.

Back to News

Recent Posts

Blog

Northern District Encourages Updated Definition of “Product”

Additional case law has been added to the proposition that a “product” can include items such as software. In Penzick v. Constrafor Inc., 25 C 4555 N.D. Ill. (Jan. 29, 2026) (Durkin, J.), Judge Durkin called the argument that “software is intangible property” and thus not a product “an obsolete perspective.” Defendant moved to dismiss Count I of Plaintiff’s Complaint, which was brought under the Illinois Sales Representative Act (“SRA”). 820 ILCS 120/1(1). Defendant argued that it was not liable...

Read More
Blog

When “Training Agreements” Become Forced Labor: Federal Court Applies Anti- Trafficking Laws to Coercive Employment Contracts

A recent decision from the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois highlights that forced labor and human trafficking laws apply far beyond what most people imagine as traditional trafficking scenarios. In Melone v. Niki Moon Salon, LLC, Case No. 25-C-5445 (N.D. Ill. Nov. 12, 2025) (Gettleman, J.), the court allowed claims under the federal Trafficking Victims’ Protection Act (TVPA) and the Illinois Trafficking Victims’ Protection Act (ITVPA) to proceed based on an employer’s use of a coercive...

Read More
Blog

Illinois Expands Protections for Whistleblowers

Illinois employees who speak up about unlawful workplace conduct now have stronger legal protections under recent amendments to the Illinois Whistleblower Act. These changes expand the types of disclosures that are protected and broaden what qualifies as unlawful retaliation– making it easier for employees to assert their rights when they are punished for doing the right thing. Expanded Protection for Speaking Up Under the amended law, employers may not retaliate against an employee who discloses– or threatens to disclose– information...

Read More