Age discrimination is illegal in the United States. In the area of employment, the Age Discrimination Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) insures that people 40 years old and older will not be discriminated against in hiring and firing, promotions and benefits, pensions and even apprenticeships. Those who believe they have claims under this law file them either in a state agency or with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). In the EEOC age discrimination is enforced and pursued, first, by mediation. Most cases are solved in mediation, but if not, employees will be referred to a lawyer. The next step is usually civil court. However, civil age discrimination lawsuits are very difficult to win, because the burden of proof is entirely on the plaintiff. The best option is generally EEOC age discrimination mediation.