Filing a CRD Complaint in Los Angeles:
Timeline, Forms, and Legal Tips (2025 Guide)
If you’re experiencing sexual harassment, discrimination, or retaliation at work in Los Angeles, one of your most powerful tools is the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) — the agency that enforces state civil rights laws.
Filing a CRD complaint is often the first legal step toward justice and compensation. Whether you plan to settle or sue your employer, this 2025 guide walks you through the timeline, forms, and legal strategy for filing a CRD complaint in Los Angeles.
What Is the CRD and What Does It Do in Los Angeles?
The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) — formerly known as DFEH — enforces California laws that protect against:
• Workplace sexual harassment
• Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or sexual orientation
• Retaliation for reporting illegal behavior
• Failure to accommodate disabilities or medical conditions
CRD accepts complaints from workers in all cities across California, including those in Los Angeles.
Step-by-Step: How to File a CRD Complaint in Los Angeles
✅ Step 1: Start Your Complaint Online
Visit: https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/complaintprocess
Choose the “Employment” section and select your complaint type (e.g., harassment, retaliation, discrimination). You’ll need to:
• Create an account
• Fill in details about your employer, position, and the incident(s)
• Upload any supporting documents
✅ Step 2: Wait for CRD Response or Request a Right-to-Sue Letter
Once your complaint is reviewed, the CRD will:
• Launch an investigation OR
• Issue a Right-to-Sue Letter, which allows you to skip the investigation and file directly in civil court. If you plan to hire an attorney, you may want to request the Right-to-Sue immediately.
Filing Timeline: How Long Do You Have to File a CRD Complaint?
In Los Angeles, your legal window is 3 years from the date of the last harassing or discriminatory act. Important deadlines:
• Sexual harassment: File within 3 years
• Retaliation or wrongful termination: File within 3 years
• After receiving a Right-to-Sue letter: You have 1 year to file a lawsuit
Is a CRD Complaint Confidential?
Yes — CRD complaints are confidential by law. Your employer will be notified of the complaint, but they cannot retaliate against you. If they do, it becomes a separate legal violation.
What Documents Should You Submit with a CRD Complaint?
To strengthen your complaint, include:
• Emails, texts, or messages showing harassment
• Written statements or journal entries
• Screenshots or photos (if applicable)
• Performance reviews or HR responses
• List of witnesses who can support your claim
The more evidence you submit, the stronger your case becomes — and the more likely you are to receive damages or settlement.
CRD vs. EEOC: Which One Should LA Workers Use?
• CRD: Best for workers in California, especially with employers under 15 people or
contractor/gig jobs
• EEOC: Federal agency, better for multistate or federal claims
In most cases, you can “dual file” your complaint — meaning CRD will also file it with the EEOC so
your rights are protected under both state and federal law.
What Happens After You File with the CRD?
• You may be invited to mediation
• The CRD may investigate and contact your employer
• They can issue findings and negotiate a settlement
• If no resolution is reached, you can request a Right-to-Sue letter and go to court
Legal Tips for Filing with the CRD in Los Angeles
1. Be specific in your complaint – include dates, names, and detailed behavior
2. Keep copies of everything you submit
3. Request dual-filing if you may need federal remedies
4. Speak with a Los Angeles employment lawyer before submitting if:
• You were fired or retaliated against
• You want to sue in court
• You have substantial damages (emotional distress, lost wages, etc.)
Filing a CRD Complaint Is the First Step Toward Justice
Filing a CRD complaint in Los Angeles is a free, powerful, and confidential way to hold employers accountable for harassment and discrimination. Start by documenting your experience, gathering evidence, and using the CRD’s online tools. And if your case is serious or involves retaliation, don’t wait — speak with an LA-based employment attorney to fight for your rights.
