What Happens after a Charge of Employment Discrimination is Filed with EEOC?

The employer is notified that the charge has been filed. From this point there are a number of ways a charge may be handled: • A charge may be assigned for priority investigation if the initial facts appear to support a violation of law. When the evidence is less strong, the charge may be assigned for follow up investigation to determine whether it is likely that a violation has occurred. • EEOC can seek to settle a charge at any stage of the investigation if the charging party and the employer express an interest in doing so. If settlement efforts are not successful, the investigation continues. • In investigating a charge, EEOC may make written requests for information, interview people, review documents, and, as needed, visit the facility where the alleged discrimination occurred. When the investigation is complete, EEOC will discuss the evidence with the charging party or employer, as appropriate. • The charge may be selected for EEOC's mediation program if both the charging ...  more