Document Compilation: Organize all harassment evidence before filing:
- Chronological incident log with detailed entries
- All related communications (emails, texts, memos)
- Witness statements and contact information
- Medical records documenting harassment impact
- Performance reviews showing work impact or retaliation
- Company policies and procedures relevant to case
Evidence Quality Assessment: Review evidence for:
- Completeness and accuracy of incident documentation
- Credibility and reliability of witness testimony
- Strength of connection between harassment and protected class
- Documentation of employer knowledge and response
- Evidence of damages and impact from harassment
Missing Evidence Identification: Identify and obtain:
- Additional witness statements or testimony
- Company documents through formal requests
- Medical documentation of harassment impact
- Expert opinions on industry standards or practices
- Comparative evidence showing differential treatment
Legal Research and Case Assessment
Similar Case Research: Research cases similar to yours:
- EEOC decisions and court cases with similar facts
- Damage awards and remedies in comparable cases
- Legal standards and requirements for your type of claim
- Employer defenses and how to counter them
- Recent legal developments affecting your case
Strength Assessment: Honestly evaluate your case:
- Quality and quantity of evidence supporting claims
- Credibility of witnesses and testimony
- Employer's likely defenses and counter-evidence
- Damages and impact that can be proven
- Likelihood of successful resolution through EEOC process
Attorney Consultation Considerations
When to Consult an Attorney: Consider legal representation when:
- Case involves complex legal issues or multiple claims
- Significant damages or career impact justify legal costs
- Employer has sophisticated legal representation
- EEOC process seems overwhelming or confusing
- Retaliation or adverse employment action occurs
Attorney Selection Criteria: Choose attorneys with:
- Specific experience in employment discrimination law
- Track record of successful EEOC representations
- Understanding of your industry and workplace issues
- Reasonable fee structure for your situation
- Good communication skills and availability
Self-Representation Considerations: You can file EEOC charges without attorney, but consider:
- EEOC staff can provide guidance but not legal advice
- Complex cases benefit from legal expertise
- Employers often have attorneys representing them
- Attorney involvement may motivate employer to settle
- Legal representation can help maximize damages and remedies