After filing a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), most individuals find themselves uncertain about what will happen next. Based on the information you provide in your charge, the EEOC may invite you and your employer to participate in mediation. Participation in mediation is voluntary; however, both parties must agree to take part.
If mediation is not offered or not accepted, the charge will be assigned to an investigator. The investigator will then gather evidence from both sides to conduct an investigation into your discrimination claim(s). The timeline for this process can vary greatly, and you likely will not receive regular updates regarding the progress of your case.
Many people are unsure what an EEOC dismissal means for their next steps. For many federal discrimination claims, the EEOC says a lawsuit must be filed within 90 days after receiving a Notice of Right to Sue; different procedures or exceptions may apply. Read the EEOC guidance on filing a lawsuit.
An EEOC dismissal does not by itself establish whether you have a viable employment discrimination claim. An attorney can review the notice, the facts, and any deadlines that may apply.
If you have questions about the EEOC process or received a Right to Sue Notice, request a free case review to discuss whether the firm may be able to represent you.