The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) enforces the Minnesota Human Rights Act, the state's civil rights law. The steps of our civil rights investigation process are described below.
Please note:
- The time limit for filing a charge with MDHR is one year from the date of the incident.
- You do not need to have an attorney to file a charge with MDHR.
- At any time, the person filing a charge of discrimination may pursue private legal action.
Report Discrimination
MDHR determines if the reported incident is covered under the Minnesota Human Rights Act.
- If the reported incident is not covered, there is no filing.
- We provide any resources to the individual, if needed.
- If incident is covered: charge is filed and sent to the entity that allegedly discriminated.
Mediation (voluntary):
Both parties agree to meet with a mediator to resolve their case.
- If mediation results in a resolution, case is closed.
- If mediation results in no agreement, case goes to investigation.
Investigation
Investigation team conducts neutral fact-finding investigation.
Determination
We issue a determination finding probable cause (violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act) or no probable cause (no violation).
- No Probable Cause: case closed.
- Appeal (optional) Parties can appeal MDHR's findings.
- Probable Cause: case goes to conciliation.
- Appeal (optional) Parties can appeal MDHR's findings.
Conciliation
We work to reach a settlement agreement to prevent future discrimination.
- Resolution (case closed)
- No agreement reached:
- Private legal action (Case closed)
- The Department files a lawsuit, represented by the Attorney General's office.
