How do I file a charge?
You may file a charge online, by US Mail or in person at one of our regional offices.
What Happens Next
How to Respond to a Charge
Mediation
Brochures
Public Meetings
Reconsideration Process
Employee SharePoint Site
Employee Web Mail
Civil Rights Reporter
Once the charge of discrimination is received the case will be assigned to a Civil Rights Field Investigator. Within two (2) weeks, the investigator sends letters and copies of the charge affidavit via U.S. Mail to the person filing the charge (Charging Party) and to the company/person (Respondent) against whom the charge was filed.
Click here for a diagram of the Charge Filing Process
The Ohio Civil Rights Commission offers a voluntary mediation program and employs highly competent mediators in each of its regional offices. A case cannot be mediated unless both parties voluntarily agree to participate in the process. The purpose of the mediation is to resolve the issues in a manner that is satisfactory for both parties. Mediation is not the forum to decide the merits of the case. If mediation is successful, the case is closed and no further action will be taken. If mediation is not successful or if one party declines to participate, a full investigation will be conducted. (For more information about mediation, please refer to our mediation section).
Throughout this process the investigator may request additional information/documentation, contact witnesses or conduct an on-site meeting at the Respondent’s place of business in order to gather factual information about the case. Based on analyses of the information collected, the OCRC will issue a written recommendation as to whether there is a violation of Ohio’s Laws Against Discrimination. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission has one year to complete the investigation. If either party does not agree with the recommendation they may appeal the finding via reconsideration. (For more information about this process, please visit the reconsideration section.) Either party can appeal the investigator's recommendation through the OCRC’s reconsideration process.
The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is an equal opportunity employer; we celebrate and embrace diversity and are committed to maintaining an inclusive community.
The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.