Relationship with Federal Agencies and Federal Courts

In order to preserve Complainant’s federal rights, IDHR automatically cross-files eligible employment charges with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and conducts the investigation for EEOC under the terms of the agencies’ Worksharing Agreement.  Similarly, housing cases are cross-filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The Complainant in an employment charge may at any time request a “Right to Sue Notice” from the EEOC which allows him/her to file the case in federal court.  If a complaint with the same issues as those filed with IDHR is filed in federal court and the Complainant has not withdrawn, the Respondent should provide a copy of the complaint, and IDHR will normally stay the investigation.  In keeping with IDHR’s neutral role, IDHR representatives cannot give legal advice to Complainants or Respondents.