When you’ve been wrongfully terminated, harassed, or discriminated against at work, you want justice, and you want it as soon as possible. One of the first questions clients ask is how long it will take for their employment law case to reach trial. The truth is, every case is different. The process can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the facts, the type of claim, and the response from the other side.
At Galo Law Firm, we represent employees across San Antonio and throughout Texas in discrimination, retaliation, wage, and wrongful termination claims. We know how stressful it is to wait for results, and our team works efficiently to move your case forward while protecting your rights at every stage. Call us today at (210) 764-6135.
The Stages of a Texas Employment Law Case
Most employment disputes start with an administrative filing, typically a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). This is a required step before you can file a lawsuit in court.
The EEOC or TWC investigation can take six months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your allegations and the agency’s caseload. Once the agency issues a “Right to Sue” letter, you have 90 days from the date of receipt to file your lawsuit in state or federal court.
After your case is filed, the following stages occur:
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence, interview witnesses, and gather records such as emails, personnel files, and pay data. This step typically lasts six months to a year.
- Motions and Hearings: Your employer may file motions to dismiss the case or limit evidence. Resolving these motions can delay trial preparation.
- Mediation or Settlement: Many cases settle before reaching trial. Mediation often occurs midway through the process and can save significant time if both parties reach an agreement.
If the case proceeds to trial, the timing will depend on the court’s schedule and backlog. In Bexar County, trials are typically set 12 to 24 months after filing, but some may take longer.
Factors That Affect the Timeline
Several factors influence how quickly an employment case moves through the system:
- Administrative Delays: EEOC or TWC investigations can add months before a lawsuit can even begin.
- Discovery Volume: Cases involving extensive documentation, such as harassment claims with multiple witnesses, take longer to prepare.
- Employer Tactics: Some employers attempt to delay proceedings by filing multiple motions or requests for extensions.
- Court Scheduling: San Antonio courts handle many employment and civil cases at once, which can impact trial dates.
At Galo Law Firm, we push back against unnecessary delays and keep your case progressing as efficiently as possible.
Why Employment Cases Take Time
Employment cases often hinge on proving discrimination, retaliation, or workplace misconduct. Proving these claims requires careful documentation, witness statements, and expert testimony. Your attorney must ensure that every piece of evidence is obtained and properly presented. Rushing this process can undermine your case and reduce your chances of success.
It’s also common for employers to resist settlement early in the process, hoping the employee will give up. Having a dedicated San Antonio employment attorney on your side ensures your case remains active, organized, and ready for trial if a settlement is not possible.
What You Can Expect
On average, a San Antonio employment law case may take 18 months to two years to reach trial once the lawsuit is filed. Some cases resolve sooner through settlement, while others require additional time due to appeals or procedural delays.
Throughout this process, our attorneys at Galo Law Firm keep you informed, prepare you for each stage, and build a strong case for the compensation and accountability you deserve.
Talk to Our Knowledgeable San Antonio Employment Attorneys
If you’re wondering how long it will take for your case to go to trial, or whether you should file a claim at all, our team can help. We will review your situation, explain your options, and give you a realistic timeline based on your specific circumstances.Call (210) 764-6135 or contact us online to speak with a San Antonio employment attorney at Galo Law Firm. We’re here to protect your rights and fight for the fair outcome you deserve.