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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Office of Fair Practices

  1. What is discrimination?
  2. Who can file a complaint with Maryland Department of Labor's Office of Fair Practices?
  3. Can I file a discrimination complaint over the phone?
  4. Can I file a confidential or an anonymous complaint?
  5. Where can I obtain copies of the forms to file a complaint?
  6. How long do I have to file a complaint?
  7. Do I have to have a representative present?
  8. May I bring someone with me to my meeting with my investigator?
  9. How do I withdraw my complaint?
  10. What happens if I am dissatisfied with the decision issued by the Agency?

1. What is discrimination?
Discrimination occurs when people are treated unequally, and usually negatively, because they are members of a particular group. Maryland law states discrimination must be based on race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, age, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, disability (mental or physical), or military status.

2. Who can file a complaint with Maryland Department of Labor's Office of Fair Practices?
Any Maryland Department of Labor employee, applicant for employment, beneficiary, or other Maryland Department of Labor client who believes that they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination prohibited by law.

3. Can I file a discrimination complaint over the phone?
Yes. However, a completed charge of discrimination must be signed and sworn to by the charging party.

4. Can I file a confidential or an anonymous complaint?
You must provide your legal name when filing a complaint. Your name must appear on the written complaint, and it must be signed by you.

5. Where can I obtain copies of the forms to file a complaint?
You can download a discrimination complaint form here, or contact the Office of Fair Practices at 410-230-6319.

6. How long do I have to file a complaint?
In general, you need to file a charge of discrimination within 1 year from the day the alleged violation occurred.

7. Do I have to have a representative present?
No. Although legal representation is not required during the complaint process, you have the right to have an attorney or union representative if you choose.

8. May I bring someone with me to my meeting with my investigator?
Yes. You (the charging party) may bring someone with you to the intake meeting; however, the Office of Fair Practices must be notified of any additional parties in advance.

9. How do I withdraw my complaint?
To withdraw your complaint, you must provide the Office of Fair Practices with a letter requesting to withdraw the complaint.

10. What happens if I am dissatisfied with the decision issued by the Agency?
If you are dissatisfied with your decision, the Office of Fair Practices will provide you with the appropriate contact information necessary to pursue your complaint further.