After IER receives what it deems to be a charge, IER will start its investigation. If IER has not filed a complaint with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) within 120 days of receiving a charge, it will send a letter notifying the injured party or representative of their right to file an administrative complaint against the respondent, and indicating whether IER is continuing its investigation. IER will also notify the respondent of its decision to continue an investigation. Once a case is filed, pre-trial matters like discovery, depositions, and pleadings are handled. ALJ decisions are directly appealable to the federal circuit courts of appeals. Settlements or successful adjudications may result in civil penalty assessments, back pay awards, hiring orders and imposition of injunctive relief, where applicable, to end discriminatory practices.