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Should I Get a Lawyer for an EEOC Complaint in Texas? (2025 Guide)

Filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) might sound simple—but it’s not always as straightforward as it seems.

If you’re dealing with discrimination, harassment, or retaliation at work, you may be wondering:

“Do I need a lawyer for my EEOC complaint, or can I do it on my own?”

Here’s what you need to know about the process, the risks of going solo, and how an employment attorney can help you protect your rights from the start.

What Is an EEOC Complaint?

An EEOC complaint (also called a Charge of Discrimination) is a legal document filed with the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Civil Rights Division, stating that your employer broke anti-discrimination laws.

These laws cover discrimination based on:

• Race

• Sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity)

• Religion

• National origin

• Age (40+)

• Disability

• Genetic information

Once filed, your complaint triggers an official investigation—and possibly, mediation or legal action.

Do You Have to Hire a Lawyer?

No, the EEOC does not require you to hire a lawyer to file a complaint.

But just because it’s optional doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to go it alone—especially if your job, your finances, or your reputation are on the line.

5 Reasons to Get a Lawyer for Your EEOC Complaint

1. The EEOC Doesn’t Represent You

Many people think the EEOC is “on their side.” But the truth is: the EEOC is a neutral agency—not your personal lawyer.

If you want someone in your corner, you need your own attorney.

2. You’ll Need Evidence and Strategy

To succeed, your complaint must show:

• You’re part of a protected class

• You were treated unfairly

• There’s a connection between your identity and the unfair treatment

A lawyer knows how to:

• Gather and organize evidence

• Frame your complaint persuasively

• Spot legal issues that strengthen your case

3. Retaliation Is Real

Many workers face retaliation after filing a complaint—being demoted, isolated, or fired.

An attorney can:

• Document retaliation

• File a separate retaliation charge

• Help you seek immediate legal protection

4. Deadlines Are Tight

In Texas, you only have 180 days to file with the EEOC or TWC after the discrimination occurs. Miss the deadline, and you may lose your chance to file.

A lawyer can keep your timeline on track.

5. You Might Want to Sue Later

After the EEOC process, you may receive a Right to Sue letter—giving you 90 days to file a lawsuit in federal court.

Having a lawyer from the beginning means:

• They’re already familiar with your case

• You’re ready to take legal action if needed

Real-Life Example: Avoiding a Common Mistake

Angela, a nurse in Dallas, filed an EEOC complaint herself after being demoted for taking medical leave.

But she didn’t include enough detail or the right legal claims. Her case was dismissed.

She later hired an attorney, but it was too late to fix the original charge.

Had she called a lawyer first, her case might’ve had a very different outcome.

When You Should Absolutely Call a Lawyer

• You’re being harassed or threatened at work

• You were fired or demoted after reporting discrimination

• Your employer has a strong legal team

• You’re confused about what to say or file

• You’re planning to sue after the EEOC process ends

How The Lange Firm Can Help

At The Lange Firm, we help Texas employees:

• File EEOC and TWC charges strategically

• Document discrimination and retaliation

• Represent clients through mediation or litigation

• Fight for lost wages, emotional damages, and more

We don’t just file forms—we build strong cases.

Final Takeaway

Can you file an EEOC complaint on your own? Yes. Should you? Not if your rights—and your future—are on the line.

An experienced employment lawyer can help you make a stronger case, avoid mistakes, and fight back against retaliation.

Contact The Lange Firm today for a consultation and get the legal backup you need.