Charge Process

Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that can help parties resolve their disagreements. A mediation conference is an alternative to an investigation and may quickly resolve a charge. Mediation is an informal, no-cost process in which the Complainant and Respondent meet voluntarily with a trained and certified IDHR Mediator, who helps them explore possible resolution of the charge. The mediation process is confidential and is available for all non-housing cases.

All in-person mediation settlement conferences are held in the IDHR Chicago office or online/virtually. During the mediation (which can take four hours or more), attorneys may be present in an advisory role. The IDHR Mediator is neutral and does not represent either side, nor do they impose a decision on the parties.

Accepting a settlement agreement does not constitute an admission of guilt by the Respondent. The terms of settlement can include monetary and/or non-monetary elements. After a mediation settlement is reached, both parties have 10 days (which may be waived) to opt out of the settlement. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the charge will proceed through to the investigation process.

• Mediation Fact Sheet
• Mediation Rules
• Mediation Conference Process
• Mediation Brochure

Additional Information on the processing of charges is available through the following links:

• How Long Does the Process Take?
• Path of a Charge (graphic)
• Procedures for Housing Charges
• Procedures for Non-Housing Charges
• IDHR Credibility Notice to Parties, [ Español ]
• Human Rights Commission
• Federal Agencies and Courts
  
  

For information about the status of a pending charge or to review a case file*, complete the online 'Contact IDHR' form and select EXISTING CHARGE/CASE, or call (312) 814-4320.

* Note: file review is only available if the investigation is not pending or active.