Q: My discrimination case occurred some time ago. Can you still
help me?
A: It all depends. How long ago? There are definite statutes of limitations that
apply to employment cases. Additionally, the more details you have
surrounding the various issues, the more likely it is that we can assist you. You
should also inform us of any formal complaints you made or filed at work,
whether they were written or verbal and tell us whether they were lodged with a
supervisor, human resources, your union, the New York State Division of
Human Rights, the New York City Commission on Human Rights or the United
States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Also, please inform us
whether you have worked with another attorney or if any legal action regarding
your matter has taken place. In New York, if your employer has at least 15
employees, you must file a charge of discrimination with the United States
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission within 300 days of the last
discriminatory act that you suffered, usually the date of your termination. You
have three years to file a complaint in state court under state law as well as city
law if you worked in one of the five boroughs of New York City.
