Filing a Title VII Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nashville Workers
Tennessee employees have state and federal protections from workplace discrimination. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin.
You can take legal action if you are a victim of discriminatory practices.
Here’s a general guide on filing a Title VII claim in Nashville. Contact a workplace discrimination lawyer for advice if you have questions about an individual case.
Understand and Document Workplace Discrimination
The signs of discrimination in the workplace can be overt or subtle. It can take many forms, like:
- Unfair hiring practices
- Unequal pay
- Unwelcome jokes related to race, gender, religion, or color
- Preventing Muslims from engaging in prayer during the workday
- Making sexually explicit comments
- Unfair hiring or demotions based on protected characteristics
- Not allowing employees to dress according to their gender identity
- Commenting on an employee’s disability or health conditions
- Biased performance reviews
If you recognize signs of discrimination at work, start documenting each incident. Keep a detailed record of dates, times, locations, and individuals involved. Ask for a statement if any co-workers witnessed the discrimination.
Gather Evidence
A strong Title VII claim has objective documentation that demonstrates workplace discrimination. Examples of evidence include:
- Emails, text messages, and written notes
- Copies of your performance reviews
- Witness statements from colleagues
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Report the Discrimination Internally
Before filing a Title VII claim, report the discrimination to your employer. Follow your company’s official process, which might involve speaking with your manager or HR department. This step is crucial because it allows your employer to address the issue internally. Consult a workplace discrimination attorney promptly if they do not address the complaint.
When you report discrimination, keep detailed records of your communications:
- Note who you spoke with, the date, time, and major discussion points.
- Keep copies of email correspondences.
- Ask if you can record the meeting if it occurs via video conference.
File a Charge with the EEOC
If your employer does not resolve the issue, you can file a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
There are several ways to file a workplace discrimination charge:
- In-person – Make an appointment at an EEOC office near you or a state or local Fair Employment Practice Agency.
- Online – Use the EEOC portal.
- By mail – Identify the involved parties, provide details of the discrimination, why you believe you were discriminated against, and sign your name.
Generally, you must file a Title VII claim within 180 days of the discriminatory act. However, if a state or local anti-discrimination law also covers your claim, you may have a 300-day extension. If you experienced multiple instances of discrimination, the deadline will apply to each incident, not all incidents lumped together. A workplace injury lawyer can advise on the deadline relevant to your case.
EEOC Investigation and Right-to-Sue Letter
After filing your charge, the EEOC will notify your employer and begin an investigation. The EEOC may request additional information, interview witnesses, and review evidence. They might also offer mediation to help resolve the issue.
Possible Outcomes
After the investigation, the EEOC may:
- Dismiss your charge
- Issue a Letter of Determination indicating that discrimination likely occurred
- Issue a right-to-sue letter that allows you to file a lawsuit in federal or state court within 90 days
Filing a Lawsuit
Hiring an experienced workplace discrimination lawyer is essential when filing a lawsuit. They can:
- Guide you through the legal process of discovery, pre-trial motions, and settlement negotiations
- Prepare a case for trial if necessary
- Organize evidence, prepare witnesses, and obtain documentation of workplace discrimination
Contact a Workplace Discrimination Lawyer
Tennessee employers can and should be held accountable for workplace discrimination. If you believe you have a valid claim, you need a law firm unafraid to stand up to wrongful practices and demand justice for any adverse effects discrimination has had on your life and career. Let The Employment and Commerce Law Group represent you. Call or contact us today for a free case evaluation with an experienced workplace discrimination lawyer.
