How to File a Workplace Discrimination Claim in Las Vegas

Workplace discrimination is not only unfair—it’s illegal. If you have been treated differently at work because of your race, gender, age, religion, disability, or other protected characteristic, you have the right to take action. Filing a workplace discrimination claim in Las Vegas can help you protect your rights, hold employers accountable, and seek compensation for the harm you suffered. While the process can feel overwhelming, an experienced Las Vegas employment lawyer can guide you every step of the way.

Below, we explain how to file a workplace discrimination claim in Las Vegas and what you can expect throughout the process.

Step 1: Understand What Counts as Workplace Discrimination

Before filing a claim, it’s important to understand what legally qualifies as workplace discrimination. Under federal and Nevada state law, discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably based on a protected characteristic, such as:

Race or color

National origin

Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation

Pregnancy

Religion

Disability

Age (40 or older)

Genetic information

Discrimination can occur in many ways, including during hiring, promotions, demotions, pay decisions, job assignments, layoffs, or terminations. It can also include harassment that creates a hostile work environment.

If you believe you were treated unfairly because of a protected characteristic, a Las Vegas employment lawyer can help you assess whether you have a valid claim under the law.

Step 2: Document the Discrimination

Evidence is critical in any workplace discrimination case. Before filing your claim, gather as much documentation as possible, including:

Emails, text messages, or written communications that show discriminatory treatment.

Notes from meetings or conversations where discrimination occurred.

Copies of performance evaluations.

Witness statements from coworkers who observed the discrimination.

Any complaints you made to HR and the employer’s response.

Keeping detailed notes with dates, times, and descriptions of discriminatory actions will strengthen your claim.

A Las Vegas employment lawyer can also advise you on additional evidence you may need and help organize your documentation to build a strong case.

Step 3: Report the Discrimination Internally

Most employers have policies requiring employees to report discrimination internally before filing a legal claim. Review your employee handbook or HR policies for specific procedures.

Typically, you should:

Report the discrimination to your supervisor, HR department, or another designated company representative.

Put your complaint in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Give the employer a reasonable opportunity to investigate and resolve the issue.

Internal complaints create an important paper trail and show that you attempted to address the problem through the company's channels.

If you are unsure how to report the discrimination, consult a Las Vegas employment lawyer before making a complaint. They can help you phrase your complaint clearly and protect your rights from retaliation.

Step 4: File a Charge with the EEOC or NERC

If your employer fails to resolve the issue, or if you continue to face discrimination or retaliation, the next step is to file an official discrimination charge. In Las Vegas, you can file a charge with either:

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) — the federal agency enforcing anti-discrimination laws, or

The Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) — the state agency that works alongside the EEOC.

Filing with one agency automatically "cross-files" your charge with the other, so you don't need to file separately.

How to File:

Online: You can start the process by submitting an online inquiry through the EEOC or NERC website.

In person: Schedule an appointment at the Las Vegas EEOC or NERC office to meet with an intake officer.

By mail: Send a written statement describing the discrimination.

You must file your charge within 300 days of the discriminatory act under federal law—or within 180 days if only Nevada law applies. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your claim, so acting quickly is essential.

A Las Vegas employment lawyer can prepare your EEOC or NERC complaint to ensure that it meets all legal requirements and fully protects your rights.

Step 5: EEOC or NERC Investigation

After you file your charge, the agency will notify your employer and may:

Request a written response from your employer.

Ask both parties to participate in mediation.

Conduct an investigation, which may include interviews, document reviews, and site visits.

If mediation fails or if the investigation finds evidence of discrimination, the agency may attempt to resolve the issue through settlement. If settlement is not possible, the agency may issue a "right-to-sue" letter, allowing you to file a lawsuit in court.

Throughout this process, having a Las Vegas employment lawyer by your side ensures that you are prepared for negotiations, investigations, and potential settlement offers.

Step 6: Filing a Lawsuit

If the EEOC or NERC issues a right-to-sue letter—or if the agency fails to act within a certain timeframe—you have the option to take your case to court.

In federal cases, you must file your lawsuit within 90 days of receiving the right-to-sue letter. Nevada law provides similar deadlines.

An employment lawsuit can seek remedies such as:

Back pay for lost wages

Reinstatement to your job

Compensation for emotional distress

Punitive damages in certain cases

Attorney's fees and court costs

Filing and litigating a discrimination lawsuit requires detailed legal knowledge and experience. Working with a seasoned Las Vegas employment lawyer gives you the best chance to succeed and recover the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Workplace discrimination can have devastating effects on your career, your finances, and your mental health. Fortunately, Nevada and federal laws provide strong protections for employees who face discrimination at work.

By understanding the process, documenting your experiences, and working with a skilled Las Vegas employment lawyer, you can take action to defend your rights and pursue justice.

If you believe you’ve been a victim of workplace discrimination in Las Vegas, don’t wait. Contact an employment lawyer today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.