If the Commission finds substantial evidence of a violation of the Cuyahoga County Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, the Commission can order anyone who has been found to have discriminated in violation of the Cuyahoga County Anti-Discrimination Ordinance to cease and desist from engaging in the unlawful conduct and to pay complainant’s attorney's fees. Upon a finding of unlawful discriminatory practice or act, the Commission may also impose civil administrative penalties from $1,000 to $5,000 for violations for each offense paid to Cuyahoga County [Section 1501.05(B)].

All penalties collected will be used to defray costs and enforcement of the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, and to support the County’s efforts in eradicating discrimination. If the Commission finds substantial evidence of a violation, the Commission can order anyone who has been found to have discriminated in violation of the Cuyahoga County Anti-Discrimination Ordinance to cease and desist from engaging in the unlawful conduct and to pay complainant’s attorney’s fees. Upon a finding of unlawful discriminatory practice or act, the Commission may also impose civil administrative penalties from $1,000 to $5,000 for each offense paid to Cuyahoga County [Section 1501.05(B)].

Many of the Commission’s cases are settled by the parties before a full administrative adjudication on the merits. These settlements conserve the resources of both the parties and the Commission, so if at any time after filing a complaint, you are interested in mediating your dispute, please advise the Commission.