Treating all your employees fairly and with respect is undoubtedly a priority. Unfortunately, there are those instances when, no matter your efforts, you may come up short in the eyes of some of your team members. An employee's displeasure might even come with a claim of discrimination, leading them to file a lawsuit. If you've been faced with this challenge, it's important for you to know how to move forward.

Don't Minimize

It doesn't matter if the allegations presented are profoundly false. You need to take each claim of discrimination seriously. It's the responsibility of the court system to make any determinations concerning validity. Make sure you aren't dismissing the lawsuit as trivial.

Every lawsuit is a serious legal proceeding with real ramifications. Denouncing the suit only limits your ability to organize your information and prepare, ultimately increasing the risk of a failed defense. Remember it's your business on the line.

Investigate EEOC Involvement

Any employee who believes they've been discriminated against can have their case reviewed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This organization reviews case details and offers an opinion as to whether or not discrimination has occurred. Should the EEOC side with the employee, they have the right to include this feedback within their lawsuit.

While it's ultimately left up to the court to make the final decision, having the support of this commission can strengthen the employee's case. In some instances, the EEOC might even take up their own lawsuit. Find out this information early on so that you know what you're going up against.

Resolve Quickly

A pending lawsuit can affect current and future business relationships and partnerships, which can affect your profits. If your attorney advises you to settle the lawsuit early on, listen to their advice. Not only does putting off a resolve for a long period harm your business practices, you could also be required to pay more money to the employee should the case proceed to trial.

After reviewing the specifics of your case, your attorney will be able to tell you rather quickly if you should consider mediation or settlement or if the case should go to trial. Make sure you heed their advice and resolve the matter at quickly as possible.

When you find out you're facing a lawsuit, enlisting the services of a corporate lawyer should be your first priority. An attorney will help you tackle this legal issue and preserve the integrity of your organization.