Jacobson v. Knepper & Moga, P.C.
Supreme Court of Illinois
185 Ill. 2d 372 (1998)
Relevant factsFree
Attorney Jacobson (plaintiff) worked for the Knepper & Moga firm (defendant) and believed the firm was violating consumer-protection statutes in its debt-collection suits. After raising the issue with a partner three times, he was fired, and he sued for retaliatory discharge. The firm moved to dismiss, arguing Illinois had not extended that tort to licensed attorneys. The trial court denied the motion, and the appellate court agreed Jacobson could proceed; the firm sought further review.
IssueFree
Whether a licensed attorney may sue his employer for retaliatory discharge after reporting the employer's allegedly illegal conduct.