How Long Do I Have To File A Civil Rights Lawsuit In Colorado?

Civil rights violations can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your legal options. Understanding the specific deadlines for filing your claim is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you don’t lose your opportunity for justice. At DeGolia Law, P.C., we’re committed to helping individuals navigate these complex timelines and fight for the equality they deserve.

Here are the essential deadlines you need to know when filing a civil rights lawsuit in Colorado:

• Employment discrimination: 300 days from the discriminatory act
• Housing discrimination: One year from the discriminatory act
• Malicious or wrongful prosecution: Two years from when the claim comes into existence

What Are The Filing Deadlines With The Colorado Civil Rights Division?

The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) handles administrative complaints for discrimination cases, and each type of discrimination has its own specific deadline:

Employment Discrimination Cases

You have 300 days from the date of the alleged discriminatory act to file your complaint with the CCRD. This timeframe applies to workplace harassment, wrongful termination, or other employment-related civil rights violations.

Housing Discrimination Cases

For housing-related discrimination, you have one full year from the discriminatory act to submit your complaint. This longer timeframe recognizes that housing discrimination can sometimes take time to identify and document.

Remember that submitting an intake inquiry does not constitute filing a formal complaint. You should complete your intake well before these deadlines to allow time for the formal complaint process.

Filing Your Complaint

When filing a civil lawsuit, your complaint must include:

• Short and plain statements describing the court’s jurisdiction
• Clear description of your claims against the defendant
• Specific demand for the relief you’re seeking (typically monetary damages)

The complaint serves as the foundation of your case and must properly identify all parties and establish the appropriate venue for your lawsuit.

What Happens After Filing A Complaint With The CCRD?

Once you file a formal complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division, the administrative process begins:

• The CCRD has 450 days to complete its investigation from the date your formal complaint is filed
• The respondent (person or entity you’re filing against) has 30 days to respond in employment cases, or 10 days in housing cases
• You’ll have the opportunity to review their response and submit a rebuttal within the same timeframes
• The Division may request additional information from both parties during the investigation

The Commission plays a crucial role in this process, as it can review appeals of the Director’s determination and has the authority to uphold, remand or reverse decisions.

Protect Your Rights With an Established Civil Rights Attorney

Civil rights deadlines are strict. Missing these critical timeframes can bar you from seeking justice and compensation for the discrimination you’ve experienced. The Colorado Civil Rights Division often cannot extend these statutorily-imposed deadlines, even when compelling circumstances exist.

At DeGolia Law P.C., we understand the urgency of these matters and the importance of acting quickly to protect your rights. Our experienced team can help you navigate both the administrative process with the CCRD and civil litigation if necessary. Don’t let time run out on your opportunity for justice: contact our firm today to discuss your case and ensure your complaint is filed within the required deadlines.