You clock into work on time, go above and beyond your job duties and genuinely try to be a good employee. This is why it is so frustrating if you are discriminated against or retaliated against at work. You may wonder if you have any options other than finding a new job. The good news is that if you live in North Carolina, you may be able to file a “REDA” complaint.
What is a REDA complaint?
If a worker in North Carolina is discharged, suspended, demoted or otherwise treated in a retaliatory action for a discriminatory reason, they may want to file a Retaliatory Employment Discrimination Act complaint (a “REDA” complaint). The worker filing the claim is referred to as the “complainant” and the employer they are filing the claim against is referred to as the “respondent.”
What happens after I file a REDA complaint?
Once filed, the claim will be investigated. Both the respondent and complainant may be contacted to tell their side of the story and supply documents. Other parties or witnesses may also be called upon to give information or produce documents. The investigator will make a decision based on the evidence garnered through the investigation process.
If the investigator issues a “No Merit” finding, it means that the allegation of retaliation or discrimination was not proven. The complainant then is permitted to pursue civil litigation if they wish. If the investigator issues a “Merit” finding, the North Carolina Department of Labor will try to eliminate the violation informally. If this cannot be done, a claim may be filed in Superior Court on behalf of the complainant, or the claimant may be able to pursue civil litigation on their own if they wish.
Learn more about REDA complaints
It is good to know that if you are treated unfairly at work for a discriminatory reason or in an act of retaliation, you have options for compensation, including pursuing a REDA complaint. REDA complaints can be confusing, and this post only provides a brief overview. It is important for all workers to understand their rights and options, so they can make an educated decision regarding whether to pursue a REDA complaint.