GROUNDED IN PRECEDENT

What to Expect After Filing a Complaint with the EEOC and PHRC

Understanding the next steps after filing a complaint with the EEOC and PHRC.

Read this first: Receipts.law is not a law firm and this is general legal information, not legal advice. It does not create an attorney–client relationship and does not tell you whether you have a claim. Employment law varies by state and by the facts of each case — only a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction can evaluate your situation.

Next Steps After Filing Your Complaint

After filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), you can expect several steps in the process.

1. **Investigation**: Both the EEOC and PHRC will begin investigating your complaint. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing relevant documents. The investigation process can take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the agencies.

2. **Mediation**: In some cases, the EEOC may offer mediation as a way to resolve the dispute without proceeding to a formal investigation. Mediation is a voluntary process where both parties can discuss the issue with a neutral mediator to reach a mutually agreeable solution.

3. **Determination**: After the investigation, the EEOC or PHRC will issue a determination. If they find reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred, they may attempt to resolve the issue through conciliation. If no cause is found, they will issue a right-to-sue letter, allowing you to pursue legal action in court.

What to Keep in Mind

It's important to keep records of all communications related to your complaint, including any correspondence from the EEOC or PHRC. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to pursue further legal action.

Additionally, be aware of any deadlines for filing a lawsuit after receiving a right-to-sue letter. Generally, you have 90 days to file a lawsuit in federal court after receiving this letter.

Disclaimer: Receipts.law is not a law firm. This is general legal information, not advice, and is not a substitute for consulting a licensed attorney in your state. Statutes, deadlines, protected categories, and remedies vary by jurisdiction and the specific facts. Any case names are cited only for what the court actually held; nothing here predicts how a court would rule on your facts. Consult an attorney before acting.