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Is There a Deadline for Filing an Employment Discrimination Claim?

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Is There a Deadline for Filing an Employment Discrimination Claim?

Employment discrimination is a serious problem that affects many individuals across a variety of industries. Understanding your legal rights, including the time limits for filing a claim, is critical in protecting yourself from workplace injustices. Missing these deadlines can result in losing the opportunity to seek justice. If you’ve experienced workplace discrimination, knowing how and when to act will empower you to address the issue effectively.

At the Law Offices of Jeannette A. Vaccaro PC, we are dedicated to assisting employees in navigating these legal processes and preserving their rights. Below, we explain key filing deadlines for employment discrimination claims and how you can act quickly to protect yourself.

Filing Deadlines for Employment Discrimination Claims

When filing a claim for employment discrimination, you must act within specific time limits defined by law. These deadlines are crucial to ensure your case is considered and your rights are upheld.

Deadlines for Filing with the EEOC

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces laws prohibiting workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age and other protected categories. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you must file a charge with the EEOC before pursuing a lawsuit in most cases.

Here are the general deadlines:

  • 180 Days: You have 180 calendar days from the date of the discriminatory act to file a charge with the EEOC. This deadline applies in states where no state or local agency enforces anti-discrimination laws.
  • 300 Days: If your state or locality has its own anti-discrimination laws and an agency to enforce them, the deadline extends to 300 calendar days.

It’s important to file as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying filing can limit your ability to collect evidence or recall key details related to your case.

FEHA Complaints

Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employees can file a discrimination claim up to three years following the discriminatory incident. These complaints include discrimination involving age, gender, pregnancy status and other protected characteristics. 

How to Protect Your Right to File

Employees often face uncertainty about how to take action after experiencing workplace discrimination. Acting quickly and strategically is the key to protecting your legal rights. Here’s what you can do:

  • Consult an Employment Lawyer. Navigating the complexities of filing deadlines and legal procedures can be overwhelming. An experienced attorney will assess your case, confirm the applicable deadlines and build a solid claim on your behalf.
  • Gather Evidence. Timely documentation strengthens your case. Keep records of incidents, dates, locations and any communications that could support your allegations of discrimination.
  • File Promptly. Don’t wait until the filing deadline approaches. Filing early helps preserve evidence, secures witness testimony and ensures your case is given the attention it deserves.

Contact Our Attorney

Time is of the essence in employment discrimination cases. Missing critical deadlines can mean losing your eligibility to take legal action. At the Law Offices of Jeannette A. Vaccaro PC, we understand the stress that comes with workplace discrimination and are here to guide you. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work, don’t wait. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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