If you believe you were wrongfully terminated in Washington, DC, understanding the role of the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) is critical. This agency plays a key part in protecting employees from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what the OHR does, how it handles wrongful termination complaints, and why filing a charge with this office can be an essential step in seeking justice.
What Is the DC Office of Human Rights?
The DC Office of Human Rights is a government agency responsible for enforcing the DC Human Rights Act (DCHRA), one of the strongest civil rights laws in the country. The DCHRA prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and other areas based on various protected characteristics.
How Does the OHR Help in Wrongful Termination Cases?
When an employee alleges wrongful termination based on discrimination, harassment, or retaliation related to protected classes—such as race, gender, age, disability, or religion—the OHR is the primary agency to investigate and resolve these claims.
Here’s how the OHR handles wrongful termination complaints:
1. Filing a Charge of Discrimination
If you believe you were fired unlawfully due to discrimination or retaliation, you can file a charge of discrimination with the OHR. This charge must be filed within 300 days of the alleged unlawful termination.
Filing a charge starts a formal investigation process. You can file online, by mail, or in person.
2. Investigation Process
Once your charge is filed, the OHR will notify your employer and begin an investigation. The agency will:
- Collect evidence from both parties
- Interview witnesses and review documents
- Assess whether there is probable cause to believe discrimination or retaliation occurred
During this process, both you and your employer have the opportunity to present your sides of the story.
3. Mediation and Conciliation
Before a formal determination, the OHR often encourages parties to participate in mediation. This is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps both sides negotiate a settlement.
Mediation can save time and reduce conflict, and many wrongful termination cases are resolved this way.
4. Determination and Enforcement
After investigation and mediation efforts, the OHR issues a determination:
- No Cause: If the OHR finds no evidence of discrimination, your case is dismissed. You will receive a Right-to-Sue notice, allowing you to file a lawsuit in court if you wish.
- Cause: If the OHR finds probable cause that discrimination or retaliation occurred, the case may proceed to a public hearing before an administrative law judge or be resolved through a settlement agreement.
The OHR has the authority to order remedies, including reinstatement, back pay, damages for emotional distress, and fines against the employer.
5. Legal Protections Beyond the OHR
Filing a charge with the OHR does not prevent you from pursuing other legal options. In fact, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) often works alongside the OHR, and your complaint may be dual-filed with both agencies.
You also retain the right to file a wrongful termination lawsuit in DC courts after exhausting administrative remedies.
Why Filing with the OHR Is Important
- Mandatory Step: For many discrimination and retaliation claims, filing with the OHR is a prerequisite before you can sue your employer in court.
- Free and Accessible: The OHR provides a cost-free way for employees to assert their rights.
- Expert Investigation: The agency specializes in employment discrimination law and has the power to investigate and enforce remedies.
- Potential for Mediation: Mediation through the OHR can lead to faster, less adversarial resolutions.
Tips for Working with the OHR
- File your charge as soon as possible to avoid missing the 300-day deadline.
- Provide clear, detailed information and documentation to support your claim.
- Cooperate with investigators and respond promptly to requests.
- Consider consulting an experienced wrongful termination attorney to guide you through the process.
Conclusion
The DC Office of Human Rights plays a vital role in protecting employees from wrongful termination based on discrimination and retaliation. Filing a charge with the OHR is often the first and most important step to hold employers accountable and seek justice.
If you believe your firing violated your rights under DC law, don’t hesitate to contact the OHR and consult with a knowledgeable wrongful termination attorney. Together, you can navigate the process and fight for the compensation and fairness you deserve. We recommend wrongful termination attorney dc.
