EEOC Lawyer: How The Lange Firm Helps with Workplace Discrimination Cases

At The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas, led by Evan Lange, we understand how complex and stressful workplace discrimination issues can be. One of the key areas where our legal expertise can make a difference is in handling cases related to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). If you are dealing with workplace discrimination or harassment, an experienced EEOC lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

Mr. Lange has nearly a decade’s worth of experience in representing employees at the EEOC, including complex cases and cases against large companies such as Wal-Mart, Southwest Airlines, and Marriott. Mr. Lange deeply cares about workers’ rights and representing people at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

What is the EEOC and What Does It Do?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination in the workplace. Established under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the EEOC ensures that employers adhere to federal regulations designed to create fair and equitable working environments.

The EEOC oversees and enforces laws related to:

• • National origin discrimination     

  • Race and color discrimination

  • Sex discrimination (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity)
  • Sexual harassment
  • Hostile work environment
  • Religious discrimination
  • Age discrimination (for individuals aged 40 and older)
  • Disability discrimination
  • Genetic information discrimination

Employees who believe they have been discriminated against based on any of these protected characteristics can file a complaint, also known as a charge of discrimination, with the EEOC.

Why You Need an EEOC Lawyer

Facing workplace discrimination is challenging, both emotionally and legally. While you have the right to file an EEOC complaint on your own, having an EEOC lawyer by your side can make a significant difference. Here’s how an experienced attorney from The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas can assist you:

Understanding Your Rights

An EEOC lawyer can help you understand whether your situation qualifies as discrimination under federal law. Not all workplace disputes fall under the jurisdiction of the EEOC, so it’s crucial to determine whether you have a valid case or whether you have an employment case that needs to be filed with the EEOC.

Filing a Strong Complaint

The process of filing an EEOC charge involves detailed paperwork and strict deadlines. An experienced attorney ensures that your complaint is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.

Representing You During the Investigation

After a complaint is filed, the EEOC may initiate an investigation. Your lawyer can represent you during this process, helping you respond to requests for information and attend meetings with investigators.

Mediation and Settlement

In many cases, the EEOC may offer mediation or settlement discussions. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair resolution without the need for litigation.

Litigation Support

If the EEOC investigation concludes and you receive a “right-to-sue” letter, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.

Administrative Leave EEOC Complaint

The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas also handles cases involving administrative leave and EEOC complaints. Administrative leave often occurs when an employee is temporarily relieved of their duties pending an investigation. If the leave results from discriminatory actions, retaliation, or other unfair practices, an EEOC complaint can be filed to seek justice. The Firm  ensures that employees facing such situations are well-represented and their rights protected.

The Process of Filing an EEOC Complaint

Understanding the EEOC complaint process is essential for employees who wish to take legal action against workplace discrimination.  The following is not to be taken as legal advice but rather educational support. It is important to hire a lawyer to help you navigate this very complicated system. Though it may seem simple on the face of it, there are pitfalls everywhere you look. The Lange firm has years of experience in avoiding pitfalls and representing individuals in front of the EEOC. Below is an overview of the steps involved:

Step 1: Contact the EEOC

Before filing a formal charge, you must contact the EEOC to begin the intake process. This involves meeting with an EEOC counselor, who will assess your case and determine whether it falls under their jurisdiction.

Step 2: File a Charge of Discrimination

If your case qualifies, you will need to file a charge of discrimination. This document outlines the details of the alleged discrimination, including:

• The employer’s name and address
• A description of the discriminatory actions
• Relevant dates of incidents

Charges must be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act. In some cases, the deadline may be extended to 300 days if state or local anti-discrimination laws apply.

Step 3: EEOC Investigation

Once a charge is filed, the EEOC will notify the employer and begin an investigation. The investigation may include:

• Interviews with the complainant, witnesses, and employer representatives
• A review of relevant documents, such as personnel files and company policies

The length of the investigation depends on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes several months.

Step 4: Mediation and Settlement

During or after the investigation, the EEOC may suggest mediation or settlement as an alternative to further legal action. Mediation allows both parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement with the help of a neutral mediator.

Step 5: EEOC Findings

At the conclusion of the investigation, the EEOC will issue its findings:

• If the EEOC finds evidence of discrimination, it may attempt to resolve the matter through conciliation.
• If conciliation fails, or if no discrimination is found, the EEOC will issue a right-to-sue letter, allowing the complainant to file a lawsuit in federal court.

Step 6: Filing a Lawsuit

If you receive a right-to-sue letter, you have 90 days to file a lawsuit. At this stage, having an experienced EEOC lawyer from The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas is critical to building a strong case and navigating the court process.

Common Types of EEOC Cases

At The Lange Firm, we handle a wide range of cases related to workplace discrimination, including:

1. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination and can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.

2. Disability Discrimination

Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship. Failure to provide accommodations or discriminatory actions based on disability are violations of the law.

3. Age Discrimination

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects workers aged 40 and older from discrimination based on age in hiring, promotions, layoffs, and other employment actions.

4. Retaliation

Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for filing a complaint, participating in an investigation, or opposing discriminatory practices.

Why Choose The Lange Firm for Your EEOC Case?

At The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas, led by Evan Lange, we are dedicated to protecting employee rights and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. Our team has extensive experience handling EEOC cases and can provide personalized guidance throughout the entire process.

With a deep understanding of federal and state employment laws, we work diligently to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

Contact The Lange Firm Today

If you believe you have been subjected to workplace discrimination, don’t wait to seek help. Contact The Lange Firm in Houston, Texas, today to schedule a consultation with an experienced EEOC lawyer.

Alternate Text for Image: A legal professional reviewing a discrimination case file with the heading “EEOC Complaint” on the front page, symbolizing the process of filing a charge with the EEOC.