Legal Question in Sexual Harassment in Illinois
Speaking with investigator vs. lawyer
About five months ago I spoke to the EEOC's investigator concerning my complaints against my former employer. I would like to know how the investigation is going and am wondering whether it's acceptable to contact the EEOC investigator directly, without going through my lawyer. My lawyer just told me that the EEOC needs to complete its investigation, which may take a while--so I'm not sure whether I should just wait. Would the EEOC be sending my lawyer info periodically, or not until everything's completed?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Speaking with investigator vs. lawyer
You may contact the EEOC directly.
Re: Speaking with investigator vs. lawyer
The general rule is that if you file the complaint through a lawyer, the EEOC will route all communications through your lawyer. However, assuming you file the complaint by yourself and the lawyer has not formally introduced/contacted (meaning the lawyer entered his appearance) on your behalf, the EEOC will respond to you only. As to the investigation, the EEOC pace and schedule will probably prevail. You can check periodically with the EEOC at least to know if the agency is making progress until the investigation is completed.