Investigative Process

The Investigative Process:

• An investigation commences once the JHRC files a complaint alleging an individual has potentially been subjected to a discriminatory housing practice.
• The complaint will be dually filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Complaints against housing providers where federal funding is involved will be transferred to HUD for investigation.
• The housing provider or related property/real estate professional named in the complaint will be served a notice of the complaint within ten working days.
• If both parties agree to participate, an initial conciliation meeting will be scheduled, if not, the housing provider will have ten days to respond to the complaint.
• An objective, timely and efficient investigation of the complaint will be conducted and a determination made, based on facts, whether there is sufficient evidence to support allegations that a discriminatory housing practice occurred.
• Steps will be taken to complete the investigation within one hundred (100) days. However, the investigation may take longer depending on the complexity of the allegations and level of cooperation by the parties involved.
• The parties will be notified of the Commission's determination on the merits of the complaint.
• The individual filing the complaint may request a voluntary withdrawal at any stage of the investigation.
  

Process Definitions:

Conciliation/Mediation: An impartial process conducted to help parties resolve their dispute. The parties may reach an agreement at anytime during the investigative process.

Determination: A written decision stating whether a discriminatory violation has occurred based on analysis of the allegations and facts determined during the investigation.

Withdrawal: A decision reached by the individual who filed a complaint to stop the investigation.