Immediate Documentation (Within 24 Hours):
- Record incident details while memory is fresh
- Take screenshots of digital evidence
- Note witness contact information
- Document your immediate physical and emotional response
- Save any related communications
Short-term Documentation (Within 1 Week):
- Obtain witness statements while memories are clear
- Follow up on any promised actions by employer
- Document any changes in workplace treatment
- Schedule medical appointments if needed
- Research company policies and procedures
Ongoing Documentation Requirements:
- Update harassment log regularly
- Monitor for retaliation or escalation
- Document any interim protective measures
- Track impact on work performance and health
- Maintain organization of evidence files
Legal Deadline Considerations
Internal Complaint Deadlines:
- Research company policy requirements for harassment complaints
- Note any time limits for filing internal grievances
- Document reasons for any delays in reporting
- Understand that internal deadlines don't override legal rights
- Keep records of all internal complaint procedures
External Filing Deadlines:
- EEOC complaints must be filed within 180/300 days of last incident
- State agency deadlines may differ from federal requirements
- Some courts require documentation of good faith efforts to resolve internally
- Retaliation claims have separate deadlines from original harassment claims
- Consult attorney well before deadlines to ensure proper filing