Filing a Complaint

Your filed complaint will be investigated by a PHRC investigator.

• Make your investigator fully aware of details.
• Answer all the questions you are asked, even if you think the answer might weaken your complaint. Your investigator will be better prepared if such information is discussed by the respondent. 
• Ensure names, dates, places, and addresses are as accurate as possible.
• Make available to your investigator any witnesses or documents that may help prove your charges (e.g., payroll slips or rent receipts).
• The PHRC has the power to subpoena relevant witnesses and documents, if necessary.

Keep your investigator advised of any change in your or your attorney's address, email, telephone number.

Pennsylvania law prohibits anyone from taking any action against:

• You, because you have filed a complaint.
• A witness who has testified or assisted in a PHRC proceeding.
• Anyone who has otherwise opposed any practice forbidden by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA).

This is called retaliation, and the law protects those who oppose illegal behavior.

The fact-finding conference is often held by the PHRC as early in the process as possible. PHRC staff will conduct the conference, at which you and the respondent present evidence and documents.

• The fact-finding conference is designed to speed up the investigation and possibly help reach a fair settlement of your complaint.
• The fact-finding conference is not a public proceeding or hearing.

A fact-finding conference may not be held in your case. There are several reasons why a fact-finding conference may not be held, which include the following:

• You may choose to settle the case with the respondent.
• You or the respondent may refuse to participate.
• The investigator may determine that a conference is not necessary based upon all of the circumstances.

If your complaint is not resolved at the fact-finding conference, or if one is not held, the investigation will continue.

The investigator will:

• Interview you, the complainant.
• Interview the respondent.
• Interview other relevant witnesses.
• Review all pertinent records and documents obtained through voluntary cooperation or subpoena.

You may be asked to clarify your complaint in light of new information or to rebut the information provided by the respondent. Immediately notify your investigator if you learn or remember any additional information.