Civil Rights Violations: Your Filing Options

Civil rights protect people from unfair treatment based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and age, depending on the law that applies. They also protect people from certain government actions. If you believe your rights were violated, you may have several ways to respond. Some options are administrative, meaning you file a complaint with an agency. Others involve going to court. This guide explains the general landscape so you can see which paths might fit your situation.

This is general information, not legal advice about your case.

Identify the type of violation

The first step is to describe what happened as clearly as you can. Was the problem in employment, housing, education, public services, or a government action such as a stop, arrest, or treatment in custody? The answer determines which agency or court is likely involved. Civil rights law is divided among federal, state, and local rules, and different laws cover different settings.

Write down the facts while they are fresh. Note the date, place, names of people involved, what was said or done, and any witnesses. Keep copies of emails, text messages, letters, photos, and records of any medical or financial harm.

Federal options

Several federal agencies accept civil rights complaints. The U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division enforces federal laws that protect people from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, color, national origin, disability, sex, and religion. Its report a civil rights violation page explains how to submit information. The page also points people with a personal legal concern to local legal aid, and a report to the Division is not the same as hiring a lawyer.

For workplace discrimination, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission handles charges under federal employment laws. The EEOC guide to filing a charge of discrimination describes the process. Many employment claims must be filed with the agency within a set time limit, and that limit may be shorter than people expect. Do not wait to ask about it.

State and local options

Many states have their own civil rights agencies, and many cities and counties have human rights or civil rights offices. These bodies may cover discrimination in housing, public accommodations, or employment under state law, which can sometimes provide protections beyond the federal rules. Look up the agency that serves your state and locality through your state government website, or ask a local legal aid office where to start.

Some states have an attorney general's office that accepts complaints about civil rights issues. The attorney general's website usually explains what kinds of complaints it handles.

Going to court

Some civil rights claims can be filed directly in court, either instead of or after an agency process. A lawsuit can seek money damages, an order requiring a change in practice, or both. Court cases involve strict procedures, deadlines, and evidence rules. The United States Courts website explains the general types of cases that federal courts hear, which can help you understand whether a federal or state court may be the right place.

Some claims require you to exhaust administrative steps before filing in court. Others have their own short deadlines. Because the rules differ, it is important to ask a lawyer about the sequence and timing early.

Civil rights claims against police and government

Complaints about police conduct or other government actions may have separate routes. Many police departments have an internal affairs or professional standards unit that reviews complaints. Some cities and counties have civilian review boards or oversight offices. A state attorney general may also review certain police matters. Ask the department and the local government how to file, and keep a copy of anything you submit.

Filing a complaint with an agency is separate from filing a lawsuit. An agency review does not stop the clock on a court case, so an attorney should be consulted quickly if you believe there may be a lawsuit.

What to document and preserve

Good documentation supports every option. Save the names and contact details of witnesses. Ask for copies of any reports or incident numbers. If you received medical care, keep the records and bills. If you were treated differently at work or school, keep performance reviews, schedules, and communications that show the change. Do not destroy anything, even if you think it is unhelpful, because a lawyer or agency may need to see the full picture.

When a civil rights lawyer may help

A lawyer who focuses on civil rights matters can review the facts, explain which deadlines apply, and identify the agencies or courts that fit your situation. This can be particularly useful for complex cases, claims against government entities, or cases where money damages are sought. Some lawyers take civil rights cases on a contingency basis, which means they are paid from a share of any recovery, but terms vary and must be in writing.

Before hiring a lawyer, check the license with the state bar. Ask how the fee will be charged, who will work on your file, and how often you will receive updates. The civil rights practice page on this site describes the kinds of matters attorneys in this area handle.

Free and low-cost help

If you cannot afford a private lawyer, you may still get help. Legal aid organizations, law school clinics, and some nonprofit groups handle civil rights matters for eligible people. The Legal Services Corporation directory can help you find civil legal aid programs. The USAGov legal aid page also lists options for people seeking assistance.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer to file a civil rights complaint with an agency?

Many people file agency complaints on their own. A lawyer can help you prepare the complaint and avoid missing important details or deadlines.

What if I am not sure whether what happened is a civil rights violation?

Write down the facts and ask a civil rights lawyer or legal aid office to review them. Many people are unsure at first, and a short consultation can clarify the options.

Is there a time limit to file?

Yes, most civil rights claims have deadlines, and they vary by law and by agency. Because the limits can be short, ask about them as early as possible.

Can I file with more than one agency?

In some situations you can. The rules on dual filing and coordination depend on the law involved, so ask the agency or a lawyer before filing in several places.

Related: Browse guides on legal topics and civil rights lawyers by practice area.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different — talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.