Notice of Right to Sue

A Notice of Right to Sue is a formal document issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a state fair employment practices agency, granting an individual permission to file a lawsuit against an employer for alleged discrimination. The notice is typically issued after the agency has completed its investigation of a charge of discrimination and has determined that there is reasonable cause to believe that discrimination has occurred. The notice will specify the time frame within which the lawsuit must be filed, usually 90 days from the date of receipt. A Notice of Right to Sue is an important step in the legal process for individuals who believe they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination in the workplace, and who wish to pursue their claims in court. It is not a finding of discrimination, but rather a prerequisite for filing a lawsuit under federal or state anti-discrimination laws.