PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 15, 2024
CONTACT:
James Yu (OHR) - (202) 227-1681; [email protected]
Ellie Sung (OHR) - (202) 727-6407; [email protected]
The DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) Relaunches Attorney-Drafted Charge Pilot Program
The Program Allows Attorney Participation to Streamline Intake and Expedite Case Management
(WASHINGTON, DC) – The DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) is re-launching its Attorney-Drafted Charges Pilot Program along with new guidance. This pilot program aims to address the growing volume of discrimination cases by allowing attorneys to file charges on behalf of their clients and reduce intake processing times for cases.
Initially launched in 2019, the pilot program’s evaluation was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. OHR will also be soliciting feedback from various stakeholders including Council of the District of Columbia, local bar associations, and advocacy groups. The pilot program will be active from July 15, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
"With an annual caseload exceeding 1,200 cases, we are dedicated to addressing wait times and ensuring accessibility for all those who live, visit, and work in the District," said OHR Acting Director Kenneth Saunders. "We encourage attorney advocates to actively participate and engage with us to ensure timely justice and strengthen the communities trust in our fight against discrimination."
At the conclusion of the pilot on December 31, 2024, OHR will open a 30-day period for all interested parties to provide written recommendations. Feedback submissions should be sent to [email protected]. OHR will review all input and determine whether to permanently adopt the program within 90 days following the close of the feedback period.
For detailed information about the 2024 Attorney-Drafted Charges Pilot Program and to access the program guidance, visit HERE.
###
About the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
The District of Columbia Office of Human Rights (OHR) was established to eradicate discrimination, increase equal opportunity, and protect human rights for persons who live in, work, or visit the District of Columbia. The agency enforces local and federal human rights laws, including the DC Human Rights Act, by providing a legal process to those who believe they have been discriminated against. OHR also proactively enforces human rights in the District through Director’s Inquiries, which allow it to identify and investigate practices and policies that may be discriminatory.
