How do I file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights?

Process

OCR accepts and investigates complaints of discrimination based on violations of the King County fair employment, fair housing, public accommodations and contracting ordinances. OCR is an independent fact-finder, and does not advocate for either side. OCR's services, including case investigations, are free of charge.

• Contact OCR and talk with an investigator, who will help to determine if we have authority to accept your discrimination complaint. Some issues are outside our area of jurisdiction because OCR does not handle all geographic areas. Sometimes your concern may not involve an allegation of discrimination — if not, we will refer you to appropriate service providers. For example, if you have a landlord-tenant issue instead of a fair housing issue, OCR will refer you to agencies that provide help in handling landlord-tenant disputes.
• OCR staff may request that you provide documentation. For example, we may need a copy of your rental agreement, or copies of correspondence between you and your employer.
• We will prepare a written complaint (called a "charge"), using the information you shared. The complaint must be signed by you, the Charging Party (the person filing the charge).

Or, you can complete an online intake questionnaire and submit it to OCR.

What happens after I file a complaint?

Filling out the intake form does not mean you've filed a complaint, but it starts the process. After OCR receives your intake form, an investigator will contact you to assist you with the process of filing.