What are my options if I receive a discrimination complaint from an employee in Texas?

As a lawyer, I can advise you on your options if you receive a discrimination complaint from an employee in Texas. Discrimination is illegal under both federal and state laws and can result in serious legal consequences for the employer. Here are some potential options for dealing with a discrimination complaint in Texas:

1. Investigate the complaint: As soon as you receive a discrimination complaint from an employee, you should take it seriously and investigate the allegations thoroughly. You should also take steps to protect the employee from any further discrimination or retaliation during the investigation. You may need to interview witnesses, review employment records, and gather other evidence to determine if the complaint has merit.
2. Seek legal advice: Discrimination cases can be complicated and require a deep understanding of employment law. It is always advisable to seek the advice of an experienced employment lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you navigate any potential legal pitfalls. The lawyer can also help you document the investigation and craft a response to the complaint.
3. Cooperate with the EEOC: If the employee files a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), you should cooperate fully with the investigation. Failure to do so can result in additional penalties and scrutiny from the government. It is also important to provide the employee with any relevant documents or other evidence so that they can fully participate in the investigation.
4. Offer resolution: If the investigation finds that there is merit to the employee's complaint, you may want to offer some sort of resolution. This could include fixing the discriminatory behavior, offering a promotion or transfer, providing back pay or benefits, or offering a settlement. Resolving the issue in a satisfactory manner can help prevent further legal action and show that you take employee complaints seriously.
5. Defend against the complaint: If the employee files a lawsuit, you will need to defend against the complaint in court. This can be a lengthy and expensive process, and it is important to have experienced legal representation to properly defend your interests.

In conclusion, receiving a discrimination complaint from an employee in Texas can be a serious matter. Employers should take the complaint seriously, investigate thoroughly, seek legal advice, cooperate with government agencies, offer resolution if appropriate, and defend against the complaint if necessary.