As an Ohio business owner being sued for discrimination by a former employee, there are several steps that you should take next to protect your business and minimize the legal consequences you may face.
Firstly, you should seek legal advice from an experienced employment discrimination attorney as soon as possible. They will review the allegations made by the former employee and advise you on the best course of action.
You should also gather and preserve all relevant documents and evidence related to the discrimination claim, including employment records, personnel files, performance evaluations, witness statements, and any other evidence that may be relevant. It is important to ensure that all evidence is accurately and completely collected and preserved, as it may be used in future legal proceedings.
Furthermore, it is essential that you do not retaliate against the former employee, such as by terminating their employment or treating them differently. Retaliation is illegal and can lead to additional lawsuits and penalties.
Your attorney may also recommend that you attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation or negotiation. If an agreement cannot be reached, they will help you prepare a strong defense and represent you in court if necessary.
It is also important to note that discrimination claims must be filed within a specific timeframe from the date of the alleged discrimination. Therefore, time is of the essence in addressing the claim and developing a defense.
In summary, seek legal advice from an experienced employment discrimination attorney, gather and preserve all relevant evidence, avoid retaliatory actions, explore options for resolving the dispute, and prepare a strong defense with your attorney's assistance.
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