CRD does not share investigative records of open case files. Once a case is closed, parties may request copies of the file. The information CRD releases is governed by the Public Records Act and relevant privileges.
How long does CRD retain investigative records?
CRD retains records for three years after a case is closed.
Frequently Used Terms
Here are the definitions of some of the words and phrases used frequently at the Civil Rights Department:
Complainant
The Individual filing a complaint.
Respondent
The person who must respond to a complaint.
Protected characteristics / category / basis / class
The characteristics that employers, housing providers, businesses, state-funded programs, and others may not discriminate based on, including disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.
Disability
A physical or mental condition that limits a major life activity.
Intake Form
What someone needs to submit to CRD before he/she may file a complaint.
Right-to-sue
The option some complainants have to pursue private legal action.
California Civil Rights System, CCRS
The cloud-based application allows members of the public and their representatives to submit complaints online 24/7 for all of the civil rights laws CRD enforces. In addition to submitting intake forms, individuals can schedule appointments, view the status of their cases, submit notes to CRD, request right-to-sue notices for court filing, submit public records act requests, submit appeals, or withdraw cases, all online.
If you previously had an account in Houdini, please contact ITSupport@calcivilrights.ca.gov and provide us with your email address so we can enable your access to CCRS. You will receive a password reset email within 24 hours.