Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC)

Filing a charge with the EEOC or OCRC is pre-requisite to filing a lawsuit under the federal discrimination laws regarding age, race, disability, religion, national origin and sex (gender).

After an individual files a charge, the employer may request a mediation before an investigation takes place. The employer may want to settle the case at this stage for far less than you deserve. You can almost guarantee the employer is going to bring an attorney to the mediation. In order to ensure an even playing field and to know what you are entitled to, it is important that you bring your own representation to any EEOC proceeding.

If the employer does not elect mediation, the EEOC has a responsibility to investigate and determine whether there is a reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred.

The importance of these charges and investigations are often overlooked. The charge and the statements made in the investigation procedure can be used against you in your civil lawsuit. It is important to seek representation to assist you in the EEOC process. You want to be in the best position when it comes time to file a lawsuit.

For more information on representation with the EEOC or OCRC, contact an Central Ohio employment lawyer or visit the Frequently Asked Questions page.