In Massachusetts, there are two primary procedures for filing a complaint: the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MAD) Complaint Process and the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (CAR) Complaint Process. The MAD Complaint Process allows individuals to file a complaint alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, age, disability, or veteran status. In order to file a complaint, individuals must complete a complaint form and submit it to the MAD. The MAD will then investigate the complaint and may issue a finding of probable cause or no probable cause. If a finding of probable cause is determined, the MAD may convene a public hearing. The CAR Complaint Process is for complaints related to consumer protection, unfair or deceptive practices, or violations of any laws administered by the CAR. To file a complaint, individuals must complete an online complaint form and submit it to the CAR. The CAR will then review the complaint and may issue a finding of probable cause or no probable cause. If a finding of probable cause is determined, the CAR may refer the case to the Attorney General’s Office. In both cases, individuals may also seek legal advice and/or file a civil action in a court of law.
In Massachusetts, there are two primary procedures for filing a complaint: the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MAD) Complaint Process and the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (CAR) Complaint Process. The MAD Complaint Process allows individuals to file a complaint alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, age, disability, or veteran status. In order to file a complaint, individuals must complete a complaint form and submit it to the MAD. The MAD will then investigate the complaint and may issue a finding of probable cause or no probable cause. If a finding of probable cause is determined, the MAD may convene a public hearing. The CAR Complaint Process is for complaints related to consumer protection, unfair or deceptive practices, or violations of any laws administered by the CAR. To file a complaint, individuals must complete an online complaint form and submit it to the CAR. The CAR will then review the complaint and may issue a finding of probable cause or no probable cause. If a finding of probable cause is determined, the CAR may refer the case to the Attorney General’s Office. In both cases, individuals may also seek legal advice and/or file a civil action in a court of law.
