Do you think you were discriminated against in the workplace?
Workplace discrimination is more common than most people realize. In 2024, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) received 88,531 discrimination charges. This represents a staggering 9.2% increase in discrimination claims from the previous year.
Here’s the kicker… Most victims of workplace discrimination are unaware of where to turn.
The services of the right EEOC lawyer can make or break your case. A skilled attorney knows how to navigate the complex web of federal regulations and help you secure the financial compensation you deserve. But what makes an experienced EEOC Lawyer? Finding the right employment lawyer can be a daunting task in and of itself.
This comprehensive guide to EEOC lawyer services walks you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect employment lawyer for your case.
Table of Contents
What are EEOC Claims and When Do You Need A Lawyer
EEOC claims are federal discrimination lawsuits that involve civil rights violations in the workplace. These charges include but are not limited to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.
Here’s what most people don’t know about EEOC claims:
You only have a limited amount of time to file your complaint. According to EEOC procedures, a complainant must file a charge of discrimination within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act. (300 days in some states). If you miss the deadline, your case is over before it begins.
This is precisely why it’s so important to have the services of an experienced EEOC lawyer who understands these tight deadlines and will work quickly. The right EEOC lawyer services will ensure that you meet all deadlines and file your complaint the first time correctly.
But when do you need to actually hire an EEOC lawyer?
If you are involved in any of the following situations, you should get legal help right away:
The sooner you have professional EEOC lawyer services in your corner, the better off your case will be.
Key Qualities To Look For In EEOC Lawyer Services
Not all employment lawyers are created equal. Here are some specific qualities that you should seek out when searching for an experienced EEOC lawyer to handle your case.
Experience With EEOC Cases
It’s crucial that your attorney has handled years of cases that are specifically EEOC claims. Ask them:
These are all great questions that will help you narrow down the list to those employment lawyers who have the most experience with the type of claim that you want to file.
Strong Track Record & Results
You want to know that the lawyer you hire has been able to win the settlements or judgments for their previous clients. While the EEOC obtained nearly $700 million for victims of workplace discrimination in 2024, you want to make sure that your lawyer has a history of positive results.
Don’t be afraid to ask for references or case results from past clients. A reputable EEOC lawyer will have no problem showing you their track record.
Communication Skills Matter
You want an attorney who can explain complex legal terms and the process in English. If you go to a consultation and can’t understand them when they are explaining your case, that is a huge red flag.
You should expect a lawyer to:
Knowledge Of Current Employment Law
Employment law is constantly changing and being updated. Your lawyer needs to stay on top of the latest EEOC decisions, supreme court rulings, and new laws.
For example, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act recently went into effect in 2023. A good employment attorney would already be familiar with this new law and incorporating it to help their clients.
FAQs
Q. What’s Your Fee Structure?
Most EEOC lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. Contingency means that they take a percentage of the final settlement (usually between 33-40%). Other employment lawyers charge hourly rates or flat fees.
Make sure you understand how they bill and what costs are included, what you are responsible for, and what happens if you lose.
Q. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine?
Asking a lawyer about their experience is always important. You should get specific when asking about similar cases that they have won.
If you are facing a disability discrimination charge, you want to know that they have successfully handled a few disability cases, not just race discrimination.
Q. What’s Your Strategy For My Case?
If you are working with a good employment lawyer, they will already have a general plan of action for your case. They should be able to outline whether they will pursue EEOC mediation or going to court, the expected timeline for resolution, the potential outcomes you can expect, and any challenges your specific case may face.
If they can’t give you a detailed answer about your case, you may want to keep looking.
Q. Will You Handle My Case Personally?
Some larger law firms or solo lawyers will pass your case onto junior associates or paralegals. You should make sure you know upfront who will be doing the work and that you are comfortable with that person.
Red Flags To Watch Out For
Red flags when choosing the right employment lawyer are plentiful. Here are some warning signs you should avoid:
The best way to avoid getting scammed by a dishonest or inexperienced EEOC lawyer is to trust your instincts and do your due diligence. Most people only hire a lawyer when they are already stressed, so don’t let anyone take advantage of you during your time of need.
How To Find Qualified EEOC Lawyers
The best place to start is by asking people you know if they have any recommendations for an employment attorney. Personal referrals are always valuable information.
You can also use:
Pro Tip:
Many EEOC lawyers offer free initial consultations. Take advantage of this! It is always best to meet with 2-3 different lawyers to compare their experience, communication style, and proposed strategy before you make your final decision.
Bottom Line On EEOC Lawyer Services
No one wants to be a victim of workplace discrimination. Finding the right EEOC lawyer to help you with your case can be one of the most difficult aspects.
But here’s the thing…
The attorney that you choose will make a direct impact on the outcome of your case. A skilled EEOC attorney means the difference between getting the justice you deserve and walking away empty-handed.
Remember these 4 key points when searching for an experienced EEOC lawyer:
Don’t settle for mediocre legal representation.
Find a lawyer who is passionate about fighting for your rights and willing to go to bat for you. It’s well worth the time and effort to do your due diligence to make sure you have the right attorney on your side.
