Cook Illinois Jury Instruction — 1.1.1 Public Employee First Amendment Claim Discharge — Failure To Promote Free Speech On Matter Of Public Concern The Cook Illinois Jury Instruction 1.1.1 addresses a specific legal claim related to public employees and their First Amendment rights to free speech. In particular, it focuses on situations where a public employee claims that their discharge was a result of the employer's failure to promote or support their free speech on a matter of public concern. This instruction is vital in cases where public employees believe their employers have violated their constitutional rights by retaliating against them for expressing opinions or engaging in speech that addresses matters of public concern. It serves as a guideline for jurors to understand the elements and considerations they should take into account when evaluating such claims. The language and structure of Cook Illinois Jury Instruction 1.1.1 indicate that it outlines the factors necessary to establish a successful claim for a public employee alleging a violation of their First Amendment rights. The instruction likely covers key aspects such as: 1. Protected Speech: To establish a claim under this instruction, the public employee must demonstrate that the speech in question falls within the realm of protected speech under the First Amendment. This typically includes speech that addresses matters of public concern or is related to the employee's role as a public employee. 2. Adverse Employment Action: The instruction likely requires the employee to show that their discharge or failure to promote resulted in an adverse employment action. This can include termination, demotion, or denial of a promotion that would have otherwise been granted. 3. Causal Connection: The instruction may also emphasize the need for the employee to establish a direct causal connection between their protected speech and the adverse employment action. It must be demonstrated that the employer's failure to promote or support their speech was the direct cause of the adverse employment action. 4. Balancing Test: In cases such as these, where the employee alleges a violation of their First Amendment rights, there may be a balancing test incorporated into the instruction. This balancing test weighs the employee's free speech rights against the employer's legitimate interests, such as maintaining efficiency and discipline within the workplace. It is important to note that while this content provides a general overview of what may be included in Cook Illinois Jury Instruction 1.1.1, the specific language and details may vary based on the jurisdiction and context in which it is used. It is recommended to consult the relevant legal authorities and professional advice for accurate and up-to-date information.