Policy-Based Deadlines:
Many companies impose internal deadlines for harassment reporting:
- Review employee handbook for specific time limits
- Understand that company deadlines don't override legal rights
- Document reasons for any delays in reporting
- Note if company policies create unreasonable barriers to reporting
Investigation Timeline Expectations:
Request reasonable investigation timelines:
- Simple complaints: 2-4 weeks for completion
- Complex complaints: 4-8 weeks depending on number of witnesses and evidence
- Extension requests: Should be justified and time-limited
- Regular updates: Weekly or bi-weekly progress reports
Relationship to External Filing Deadlines
EEOC Deadline Preservation:
Internal reporting doesn't stop external filing deadlines:
- EEOC complaints must be filed within 180/300 days of last incident
- Internal complaint filing doesn't extend EEOC deadlines
- Document internal reporting for dual-filing strategies
- Consider filing EEOC complaint if internal process is inadequate
Strategic Timing Considerations:
- Allow reasonable time for internal resolution before external filing
- Don't delay external filing indefinitely waiting for internal resolution
- File external complaints if internal process shows bad faith
- Use internal process results to strengthen external complaints