773-435-9064
Wyandotte

773-435-9064
Chicago

A Reliable And Tenacious Team You Can Trust

Navigating Civil Rights Laws: Guidance For Employers, Businesses, Landlords And Housing Cooperatives

Civil rights complaints can derail the success of your business or organization. Many high-profile businesses have experienced very public falls from grace due to allegations of civil rights violations. In addition to impacting the reputation of your organization, a civil rights violation can also result in costly sanctions.

At Pentiuk, Couvreur & Kobiljak, P.C., our lawyers help clients take a proactive approach toward avoiding civil rights complaints through meticulous compliance. We also defend clients when complaints do arise. Since 1989, our lawyers have been trusted partners for businesses, housing cooperatives, landlords, property management companies and other organizations. We have convenient offices in Chicago and the Detroit area.

Key Civil Rights Laws

Civil rights law encompasses detailed regulations at the federal, state and sometimes local levels. Key enactments include:

  • The Fair Housing Act is a federal law prohibiting discrimination in housing.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a landmark federal law that prohibits discrimination in employment.
  • The Americans with Disabilities Act covers public accommodations, including business premises.
  • The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act is a state law in Michigan that applies to housing, employment and public accommodations.

Generally speaking, these laws prohibit discrimination on certain protected grounds, including religion, race, sex, sexual orientation, LGBTQ status and age.

Defending Against Civil Rights Complaints

The process for navigating civil rights complaints can be complicated. Usually, you will be dealing with a state or federal administrative agency. The rules and procedures for contesting the complaint vary by agency.

Our lawyers can provide a strong and strategic defense for your organization. We routinely handle complaints involving:

  • The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
  • The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR)

Our lead attorney in this area, Kerry Morgan, has vast experience spanning decades. He formerly served as an attorney-advisor for the United States Commission on Civil Rights, gaining valuable experience he draws on to advise private clients.

Contact Our Team For More Guidance On Civil Rights Laws

We work with businesses, employers and housing cooperatives, providing diligent representation and consulting services. Learn more by calling 773-435-9064 for our Chicago office or 773-435-9064 for our office in Wyandotte. You can also contact us through our website.