Deadlines To File Sexual Harassment Claims John F. Melton
Q.
How long do I have to sue for sexual harassment? For instance, if I was sexually harassed ten years ago, is it too late to file a charge?
-- Anonymous
A.
Unfortunately, the answer is probably yes. However, you should first consult with an attorney in your state before making a decision as sometimes the deadlines can be extended under certain circumstances.
Many people do not realize that there are often very short deadlines to file claims for sexual harassment or discrimination. In order to file a lawsuit for sexual harassment or discrimination, you often must first file a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the state or local equivalent. This deadline can be as short as 180 days or 300 days from the instance of discrimination, depending on the state. If you fail to timely file a charge of discrimination, it could forever bar you from filing a lawsuit.
The deadlines in employment law can be very confusing. I could probably write a 10 page paper attempting to explain all of the deadlines and exceptions to deadlines present in these types of cases. That is why if you believe you are being discriminated against or sexually harassed, that it is so important to consult with legal counsel who is familiar with employment law to discuss your options.
John F. Melton
Ross|Melton, P.C.
1104 San Antonio Street
Austin, Texas 78701 Austin employment lawyer
