What Is the Process of Filing a Charge with The EEOC?
If you believe you have been discriminated against, there are certain steps you will need to take before you can move forward with filing a lawsuit. This is especially true if your employer is covered under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). After reading this, click here to find out what is required of your employer by the EEOC and what you can do to get the information you need to build a successful case against your employer when you have been discriminated against.
First, how do you know if your employer is covered under the EEOC? Generally speaking, companies with at least 15 employees (and at least 20 for age discrimination cases) are covered by the EEOC. These are not the only coverage requirements, and if you are unsure whether or not you will need to go through the EEOC first, you should read the coverage requirements on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s site or contact an employment discrimination attorney with your questions.
Which Laws Does the EEOC Enforce?
The EEOC is responsible for enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws. They are headquartered in Washington, D.C. and have offices around the nation where you can take your charge. They protect job applicants, employees, former employees, and applicants/participants in training and/or apprenticeship programs from discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. In addition, they provide protection from retaliation if you complain about such activity or assist in the investigation. Under the laws enforced by the EEOC, an employer is also prohibited from denying a reasonable workplace accommodation.
What Can You Expect Once You File Your Complaint?
Once you have filed your discrimination charge with the EEOC, it is possible that your employer may attempt to resolve the charge through mediation or settlement, but you do not have to feel pressured to accept such invitations. It would be best to contact an employment attorney before agreeing to anything.
Your charge will most likely proceed to an investigation, and the commission will begin gathering evidence. They may contact you and your employer for more information. The investigation could take upwards of 180 days. If you feel strongly that you will file a lawsuit with the federal court, you should utilize this time to your advantage, working with an attorney to begin building your case.
The EEOC will either determine that there is or is not reasonable cause to believe the discrimination occurred. However, regardless of the EEOC’s decision, you can still file a lawsuit if you wish to pursue justice.
Contact our offices for advice on your specific situation. We have a competitive record representing clients through their employment disputes.
What Our Clients are Saying
The Opinions That Matter Most
At Robert A. Klingler Co., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
-
"I recommend him without any reservations."If you are looking for an attorney who truly wants to help, to listen, who cares about you and will represent you with passion and determination. Bob Klinger is your attorney.- Attorney Pablo Sartorio
-
"You simply cannot find a better lawyer to help you through your toughest times."
Bob Klingler is an outstanding attorney. Not only does he hold an exceptional intellect, drive and talent, but he deeply cares for the people he represents. You simply cannot find a better lawyer to help you through your toughest times.
- Attorney Gregory McMenamy -
"I endorse him without reservation."
Robert Klingler is an outstanding employment attorney who obtains remarkable results. Robert has won verdicts in significant cases, though vigorous representation of his clients. I endorse him without reservation.
- Attorney Tod Thompson -
"I highly recommend Bob."
I endorse this lawyer. Bob is a skilled and compassionate trial attorney. Even though he has years of experience, he constantly strives to improve and be the best attorney he can be. I highly recommend Bob.
- Attorney Michael Kyle -
"Bob is a smart, poised and dedicated lawyer."
Bob is a smart, poised and dedicated lawyer. I will not hesitate to refer all employment, discrimination and sexual harassment cases to him.
- Attorney Daniel Stageman -
"I cannot speak highly enough of Bob."
I cannot speak highly enough of Bob. I was fortunate enough to have gotten to know him at trial lawyers college and had the opportunity to work with him on several matters. It makes me proud to share the profession with amazing lawyers such as Bob.
- Attorney Phillip Hall -
"I strongly recommend him to anyone in need."
I endorse this lawyer. Bob has a great heart and mind. He will passionately represent his clients and puts in the hard work necessary to win. I strongly recommend him to anyone in need.
- Attorney Pressley Henningsen -
"Bob is a great trial lawyer that really cares about his clients."
Bob is a great trial lawyer that really cares about his clients. He’s committed to their cause and works tirelessly on their behalf. I’d recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney in Ohio.
- Attorney Jed Cain