Step 1: Filing a Complaint

The first step in the process is filing a discrimination complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission.

Complaints may be submitted by individuals who believe they experienced discrimination based on a protected class in a covered area such as housing, employment, education, public accommodations, or credit.

The complaint should include information about:

• The individual or organization involved
• The type of discrimination that occurred
• The protected class involved
• When and where the incident occurred

This information helps the Commission review the complaint.

Step 2: Initial Review

After a complaint is filed, the Commission conducts an initial review to determine whether the complaint falls within its jurisdiction.

This review considers whether the complaint involves:

• A protected class
• A covered area such as housing, employment, education, public accommodations, or credit

If the complaint falls within the Commission’s jurisdiction, the case may move forward in the process.

Step 3: Investigation

If a complaint moves forward, the Commission may conduct an investigation.

During the investigation, staff may gather information from the parties involved. This may include:

• Written statements
• Documents or records
• Interviews with individuals who may have relevant information

The investigation helps determine whether there is evidence of discrimination.

Step 4: Possible Mediation

In some cases, the parties involved may have the opportunity to participate in mediation.

Mediation is a voluntary process in which both parties work with a neutral mediator to try to resolve the dispute.

If an agreement is reached, the case may be resolved without further proceedings.

Step 5: Determination

After the investigation is completed, the Commission reviews the information gathered and makes a determination based on the evidence.

This determination may address whether there is reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred.

Step 6: Possible Next Steps

Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the case may proceed through additional steps such as:

• Settlement discussions
• Administrative hearings
• Other legal proceedings

Each case is evaluated based on its individual circumstances.