How do I prove discrimination?

You can show direct evidence (discriminatory statements, policies) or circumstantial evidence (differential treatment, statistical patterns, pretext for stated reasons) [42 U.S.C. 2000e-2].

What happens after I file?

The agency investigates, attempts mediation or conciliation, and may issue findings. If unresolved, you receive a right-to-sue letter allowing you to file a lawsuit.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Ohio Workplace Discrimination — Filing a Complaint

Q: What counts as workplace discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when an employer treats you less favorably because of a protected characteristic. Under the Ohio Civil Rights Act, protected classes include: race, color, religion, sex, military status, national origin, disability, age (40+), ancestry — applies to employers with 4+ employees; broader coverage than federal law due to lower employer threshold and inclusion of ancestry and military status [§ 4112.02].

Q: Can I file with both the state agency and EEOC?

Yes. OCRC is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are automatically cross-filed; dual filing extends the federal deadline to 300 days. Filing with one agency can often satisfy the requirements of the other through cross-filing agreements.

Protected classes, filing deadlines, and how to pursue a discrimination claim under Ohio and federal law.

The Ohio Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination in Ohio §4112.02.

Protected Classes

Under Ohio law, employers cannot discriminate based on: race, color, religion, sex, military status, national origin, disability, age (40+), ancestry — applies to employers with 4+ employees; broader coverage than federal law due to lower employer threshold and inclusion of ancestry and military status.

Federal laws (Title VII, ADA, ADEA) provide additional protections for employees of employers with 15+ employees (20+ for age discrimination).

Types of Discrimination

Disparate treatment — intentional discrimination based on a protected characteristic

Disparate impact — neutral policies that disproportionately affect a protected group

Failure to accommodate — refusing reasonable accommodations for disability or religion

Harassment — creating a Hostile work environment based on a protected characteristic

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

You have Must first file a charge with OCRC within 2 years and receive a right-to-sue notice (or another qualifying event) before suing, except for suits seeking only injunctive relief; the civil action must be filed within two years, with that period tolled while the OCRC charge is pending; 300 days to file with EEOC through dual filing. OCRC is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are automatically cross-filed; dual filing extends the federal deadline to 300 days.

	Details
State Agency	Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC)
Federal Agency	EEOC
State Deadline	Must first file a charge with OCRC within 2 years and receive a right-to-sue notice (or another qualifying event) before suing, except for suits seeking only injunctive relief; the civil action must be filed within two years, with that period tolled while the OCRC charge is pending; 300 days to file with EEOC through dual filing
Federal Deadline	180 days (300 with deferral) [42 U.S.C. § 2000e-5]

⚠Filing deadlines are strictly enforced. Missing the deadline typically bars your claim entirely, regardless of its merits.

✓File with both the state agency and EEOC to preserve all options. A single filing can often be cross-filed with both agencies.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Employment Law)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Employment records

(pay stubs, contracts, offer letters)

Communication evidence

(emails, texts, performance reviews)

Witness information

(coworkers who can corroborate)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and employment situation.

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