Unequal treatment
Treated worse for who you are, by someone who serves the public
Public offices and businesses open to everyone can't turn people away or treat them worse because of race, religion, sex, national origin or age. When one does, the law gives you ways to answer.
We take these cases against public bodies and businesses. Discrimination at a job goes to employment lawyers, and we'll point you to one.
Where unequal treatment shows up
Four places we see it most.
Refused service or entry
A shop, restaurant, clinic or landlord that turned you away, or charged you more, for who you are.
Unequal service from an office
A city or county office that serves some neighborhoods or groups far worse than others.
Harsher school discipline
Students punished more severely than classmates for the same thing.
Harassment by someone in a public job
Slurs, threats or targeting by an official while you were using a public service.
Gather these before we talk
- What was said or done, as close to the words as you can remember.
- How other people in the same situation were treated.
- Any letters, forms, emails or messages you were given.
- The names of people who saw it or heard about it.
Questions about discrimination cases
Do I need proof that they meant to discriminate?
Not always. Patterns, comparisons and what was said all count. Tell us what you saw and we'll sort out what it adds up to.
What if it happened at my job?
Job discrimination has its own agencies and its own lawyers. We'll tell you who to call and how soon.
Is a complaint to the agency enough?
Sometimes it's required first, and sometimes it's not the best route. We'll go over both with you.
Tell us how you were treated
Say it in your own words. We'll ask for details later.