The DC Human Rights Act requires that all cases are mediated.

The goal of mediation is to resolve the complaint before a full investigation begins. 

Below are some basic facts about OHR’s mediation program:

• The DC Human Rights Amendment Act established mandatory mediation, effective October 1, 1997. Mediation is an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process that is used by the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR) as an alternative to investigation. Complaints that are not resolved in mediation are forwarded to an investigator.
• Parties to a complaint will not be required to submit evidence or testimony from witnesses. Mediators do not weigh any evidence, interview witnesses or determine whether any wrongdoing has occurred.
• Joint and private confidential sessions may be held with both parties. The Mediator does not determine how the matter will be resolved but may suggest options. 
• Mediation is not a legal process. Legal representation is permitted only in an advisory capacity and attorneys may not speak for the charging party. Mediation is confidential and may not be recorded. No aspect of mediation can be used in any future litigation of the complaint.
• Agreements or settlements reached during mediation do not constitute an admission by the Respondent of a violation of the Act or any other state or federal law.
• Complaints that are resolved in mediation are administratively dismissed by OHR and if cross-filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, are dismissed from that agency as well.

If you have any more questions, please reach out to the OHR’s ADR program by calling 202-727-4559.

This webpage was last updated on June 24, 2026.