The Legal Documents

This appendix contains examples of the key legal documents you will encounter in an employment dispute. These are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for legal advice. Sample: Cease and Desist Letter [Date] VIA CERTIFIED MAIL AND EMAIL [Name of Harasser] [Harasser's Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] Re: Formal Demand to Cease and Desist Harassing Conduct Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name]: I am writing to formally demand that you immediately cease and desist all forms of unwelcome and harassing conduct directed toward me. Since [Date], you have engaged in a pattern of behavior that has created a hostile, intimidating, and offensive work environment for me. This conduct has included, but is not limited to, the following:

• [List specific examples of harassing conduct with dates, times, and locations. Be factual and concise.]

• On [Date], you [describe specific incident].

• On [Date], you [describe specific incident].

• On [Date], you [describe specific incident].

• This conduct is unwelcome, unprofessional, and I believe it constitutes illegal workplace harassment under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Illinois Human Rights Act.

I have a right to a workplace free from harassment. Your actions have caused me significant distress and have interfered with my ability to perform my job. This letter is a formal demand that you immediately cease and desist all harassing behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, any unwelcome physical contact, offensive jokes or comments, and any other conduct that creates a hostile environment. I have reported this conduct to Human Resources. I expect that you will cooperate fully with their investigation. I will not tolerate any form of retaliation for making this complaint. I am a dedicated employee and I wish to continue performing my job in a professional and respectful environment. I trust that you will take this demand seriously and that your inappropriate conduct will end now. Sincerely, [Your Name] CHARGE OF DISCRIMINATION

• This form is affected by the Privacy Act of 1974. See enclosed Privacy Act Statement and other information before completing this form.

AGENCY(IES)

CHARGE NO. [ ] EEOC (Office use only) NAMED IS THE EMPLOYER, LABOR ORGANIZATION, EMPLOYMENT AGENCY, APPRENTICESHIP COMMITTEE, OR STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY THAT I BELIEVE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST ME OR OTHERS.

• Name: Sterling Manufacturing, Inc.

• Street Address: 123 Industrial Drive

• City, State, and ZIP Code: Chicago, IL 60601

• Number of Employees: 150+

CAUSE OF DISCRIMINATION BASED ON (Check appropriate box(es))

• [ ] RACE

• [ ] COLOR

• [ ] SEX

• [ ] RELIGION

• [ ] NATIONAL ORIGIN

• [X] AGE

• [ ] DISABILITY

• [ ] GENETIC INFORMATION

• [ ] RETALIATION

DATE(S) DISCRIMINATION TOOK PLACE

• Earliest: [Date of Termination]

• Latest: [Date of Termination]

• [ ] Continuing Action

THE PARTICULARS ARE:

I. Personal Harm: I was terminated from my position as Office Manager on [Date]. I had worked for the company for twenty-two (22) years and had consistently received excellent performance reviews. II. Respondent's Reason for Adverse Action: The reason given for my termination was that the company was "restructuring" and wanted a "fresh perspective." III. Discrimination Statement: I believe I was discriminated against because of my age (58) in violation of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and the Illinois Human Rights Act. My belief is based on the following: a. I was a long-term, highly successful employee with a b. The reason given for my termination, the need for a c. My replacement is approximately 35 years old and has d. Since the new management took over, I am aware of at I want this charge filed with both the EEOC and the State or local Agency, if any. I will advise the agencies if I change my address or telephone number and I will cooperate fully with them in the processing of my charge in accordance with their procedures. I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. [Signature] Date: [Date] Maria Johnson