Agencies
Services
Path of a Charge
Illinois Department of Human Rights
Intake
The charge is filed and sent to Respondent within ten (10) days of filing. Charges must be filed within one year for a Housing case.
- Mediation - If both parties agree to mediation, and sign an extension for 90 days, the case will be sent to mediation. If mediation is successful, a voluntary settlement will close the case. If mediation is unsuccessful, the case is forwarded for investigation.
IDHR may require the Respondent to file with IDHR a formal response to the charge, or Respondent may voluntarily elect to file a formal response within 60 days from receipt of the charge.
Investigation
The charge is assigned to an investigator and a fact-finding conference may be scheduled and held. At any time during an investigation there may be a voluntary settlement. A determination is issued at the conclusion of the investigation.
Finding Issued
Substantial Evidence:
- Conciliation
- Voluntary settlement
- Conciliation unsuccessful, complaint filed with the Human Rights Commission
OR
- Civil Action in Circuit Court
Lack of Substantial Evidence:
- Dismissal
- Request for Review (Appeal) process - optional
- If dismissal sustained, appeal to Appellate Court
- If successful, Substantial Evidence procedures followed
OR
- Civil Action in Circuit Court