Section actions
Duration: Preparation of the report — 1 to 2 hours; inspection — weeks to months; court — 6 to 18 months
Cost: Free; trade union and legal aid for the court
Possible online
Who this guide is for
Section actions
- You if your employer does not pay, exceed the legal term or breach the contract
- You if you suffer harassment, discrimination or dangerous conditions
- You if you want to understand your rights before filing a complaint
To be prepared in advance
Section actions
- Employment contract and payroll
- Evidence of shortcomings: exchanges, photos, pay slips
- A diary of incidents dated (important for harassment)
Step-by-step procedure
Section actions
- 1First, record the facts in writing: dates, what happened, witnesses. For harassment or discrimination, gather as much evidence as possible (e-mails, text messages, testimony from colleagues).
- 2Talk to the labour inspectorate of your territory (departmental control unit). The address appears on government.fr according to the postal code. Comes, phone or online deposit possible.
- 3File a report / complaint. For certain facts (moral/sexual harassment, discrimination), you can file anonymously. For others (unpaid, conditions), better in your name.
- 4The inspector supervises the employer: request for documents, unannounced visit, hearing of employees. The employer does not have the right to punish you for the complaint (this is a separate offence).
- 5At the end, the inspection may: issue a formal notice, impose a fine, forward to the prosecutor for criminal prosecution.
- 6If there is money at stake (unpaid salary, compensation), simultaneously seize the Prud'hommes Council. The inspection supports the facts, but the financial decision is up to the judge.
- 7Protection of whistleblowers: a represal dismissal of a complaint is deemed null and void, and you can request reinstatement and compensation.
Common mistakes
Section actions
- Complaining without proof — the inspector has more difficulty in acting.
- To believe that the employer will avenge with impunity — reprisals are illegal.
- Go to the Prudsmen without inspection: the control supports the demand.
- Tarder: For harassment and certain facts, statute of limitations apply.
- File anonymously where a name is required to obtain repair — inspection is limited.
Official sources
Section actions
Show sources in this section
Important remark
Labour disputes have many deadlines and nuances. This information is indicative — for your situation, consult the labour inspectorate, a trade union or a labour lawyer.
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