Tell us your story

You file a charge
*  If the facts of your case call for a full investigation,
   we will draw up an official charge for you to sign. 
   The final decision to file a charge is up to you. 
   (Referral - if your case does not qualify for our
   investigation, we will refer you to another
   agency for help)

We investigate your case
*  You sign the charging papers
*  HRHS contacts the "Respondent" - the person
    or group that you are charging with discrimination
*  An investigator meets with you to go over your case
    in detail
*  The investigator conducts interviews and gathers evidence  

Case Outcomes - ways that your case can go
*  Reasonable Cause - HRHS finds that the evidence supports your charge of illegal
    discrimination
*  No Reasonable Cause - HRHS finds that not enough evidence was found to
    support your charge of  illegal discrimination
*  Settlement - You and the Respondent sign a negotiated agreement, which
    can include remedies
*  Withdrawal - You withdraw your charge
*  Administrative Closure - HRHS closes the case if we cannot complete the
   investigation, or if you choose to file your case in court

Reaching an Agreement - At any time during the investigation, HRHS can help you
and the Respondent settle the case through our Facilitated Resolution Process

Remedies - If HRHS finds "reasonable cause," we will work with you to decide the
best remedies for your case.  Remedies can include payment of back rent,
mandatory training for management and employees, etc.

Appeal - If HRHS finds "no reasonable cause," you can appeal the decision with
10 days to HRHS

If your experience occurred within a year
from the most recent date of alleged 
discrimination stop by or call us:
City of Tacoma,
Human Rights and Human Services Department
747 Market Street, Room 836,
Tacoma. WA  98402-3779
(253) 591-5151  
TTY-(253) 591-5153   
hrhs@ci.tacoma.wa.us  

Information can be made available in alternative formats upon request

Our offices are accessible to people with disabilities