1. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible as there are various time considerations called statutes of Limitations which prohibit filing a lawsuit after a certain period of time.
2. Comply with jurisdictional requirements by filing a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing, (DFEH) and the E.E.O.C. which is the federal counterpart of the DFEH. As there are overlapping functions between the agencies many times they have instituted a worksharing program where by filing with the State it was considered also filing with the federal government. Be sure, ask the state if you will have to file with the EEOC also or is the workshare in effect.
3. If you have decided to be represented by an attorney, you will generally be advised to tell the DFEH and the EEOC that you do not wish them to conduct an investigation of the alleged charges but just want a "RIGHT TO SUE" LETTER., which you will bring to the attorney.