Mediation and ADR
EEOC mediation
A free, voluntary program in which a trained, neutral mediator helps an employee and employer try to resolve a charge of discrimination filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.[1]
In more detail
The EEOC offers mediation as an alternative to its usual investigation, and the mediator doesn't decide who is right or wrong.[1] If mediation doesn't resolve the charge, it goes on to investigation like any other charge.[1] A charge of discrimination has to be filed before most federal job discrimination lawsuits can be brought.[2]
Varies by state
This is a federal program. State fair employment agencies run their own processes. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Charge of discriminationA signed statement filed with the U.S.
- ConciliationIn federal employment discrimination cases, the EEOC's informal effort to end an unlawful practice through conference, conciliation and persuasion after it finds reasonable cause to believe a charge is true.
- MediationA process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties communicate and negotiate so they can reach their own voluntary agreement.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). EEOC mediation: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/eeoc-mediation/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.