Best Discrimination Lawyers in Colorado

About Discrimination Law in Colorado, United States

Discrimination occurs when individuals are treated unfairly or unequally based on certain protected characteristics. In Colorado, discrimination law aims to safeguard the rights of individuals in various settings, including employment, housing, public accommodations, and education. The state has enacted specific statutes to ensure that everyone has access to equal opportunities, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, national origin, ancestry, or other protected categories. Colorado law works in conjunction with federal statutes such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Fair Housing Act to provide broad protections against discrimination.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in Colorado, consulting with a lawyer can help clarify your rights and options. Common scenarios where legal assistance may be necessary include:

• Being a victim of workplace discrimination, such as unfair treatment, demotion, or termination due to a protected characteristic
• Experiencing harassment or a hostile work environment based on race, gender, age, or other protected categories
• Encountering housing discrimination, such as refusal to rent or unfair terms because of ethnicity, disability, or family status
• Facing denial of services or unequal treatment in public accommodations like restaurants, hotels, or stores
• Needing to file a claim with a government agency or respond to a discrimination complaint investigation
• Negotiating settlements with employers, landlords, or service providers
• Understanding and meeting procedural deadlines, such as filing complaints within a specific timeframe

A lawyer with experience in discrimination law can provide guidance, represent your interests, and help you pursue compensation or corrective action.

Local Laws Overview

Colorado has comprehensive laws targeting discrimination beyond federal requirements. The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) is the primary state law that prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and advertising. Unlike some federal laws, CADA covers businesses with any number of employees and explicitly includes protections for sexual orientation, gender identity, and other classes. Some additional points to note:

• Employment discrimination in Colorado covers race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age (40 and over), disability, gender expression, and gender identity
• The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) investigates discrimination complaints
• Retaliation for filing a complaint or assisting with an investigation is strictly prohibited
• Accessibility laws require reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in the workplace and public spaces
• Local ordinances, such as those in Denver or Boulder, may provide additional protections

The combination of federal, state, and local laws means that people in Colorado enjoy broad anti-discrimination protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of discrimination are illegal in Colorado?

Colorado law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, creed, disability, marital status, and age (in employment for people 40 and older).

What is the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act?

The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act is a state law that prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and advertising. It is enforced by the Colorado Civil Rights Division.

Who can file a discrimination complaint in Colorado?

Anyone who believes they have been subjected to illegal discrimination in employment, housing, or public accommodations can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division.

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?

For employment discrimination, you generally have 300 days from the alleged act to file a complaint with the CCRD. For housing discrimination, you may have up to one year. It is important to consult legal counsel or the CCRD for precise deadlines.

What is considered a protected class in Colorado?

A protected class includes groups identified by characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, national origin, age, ancestry, or marital status.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The CCRD will investigate your complaint, which may include interviews, reviewing documents, and mediation. They may try to resolve the dispute or issue a determination regarding whether discrimination occurred.

Can an employer retaliate against me for reporting discrimination?

No, Colorado law prohibits retaliation against individuals who file a discrimination complaint or participate in an investigation.

Are sexual orientation and gender identity protected in Colorado?

Yes, both sexual orientation and gender identity are explicitly protected under Colorado law in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

What should I do if I experience discrimination?

Document the incident, gather any supporting evidence, and consider consulting a discrimination lawyer or contacting the CCRD to file a complaint.

Can I sue for damages if I am a victim of discrimination?

Yes, depending on the case, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek damages such as lost wages, reinstatement, emotional distress, or other remedies. A legal professional can guide you on your options.

Additional Resources

If you believe you need help regarding discrimination in Colorado, you may contact or consult the following resources:

• Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) - Investigates and mediates discrimination complaints
• The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - Handles federal workplace discrimination cases
• Denver Anti-Discrimination Office - Assists with local discrimination issues
• Colorado Legal Services - Provides legal help to eligible residents
• Denver Bar Association or Colorado Bar Association - Lawyer referral programs
• Local advocacy groups such as the ACLU of Colorado and One Colorado

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced discrimination, it is critical to act promptly. Begin by documenting the incident, including dates, times, names of those involved, and any communications or evidence. Reach out to the Colorado Civil Rights Division or a relevant local agency to discuss filing a complaint. Consult with an experienced discrimination attorney to fully understand your rights and the potential remedies available. A lawyer can guide you through the process, represent you in negotiations, and, if necessary, in court. Taking these steps can help protect your rights and hold accountable those responsible for unlawful discrimination in Colorado.