Civil Rights & Disputes in Connecticut
Key Connecticut Law
Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act — CGS Section 46a-60 et seq.
Connecticut's Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disability, intellectual disability, learning disability, physical disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and genetic information.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Connecticut
Connecticut Agencies & Resources
Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO)
State agency investigating discrimination complaints in employment, housing, credit, and public accommodations.
EEOC New York District Office (CT)
Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Connecticut workers.
Connecticut Bar Association — Lawyer Referral
Referral service for civil rights and employment discrimination attorneys in Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Connecticut civil rights law apply to small employers?
Yes. Connecticut's Fair Employment Practices Act applies to employers with three or more employees — well below the federal threshold of 15 employees for race/sex/national origin discrimination and 20 employees for age discrimination. Small business employees in Connecticut have more state-level protections than in many other states.
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Connecticut?
Discrimination complaints must be filed with the CHRO within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Connecticut has a worksharing agreement with the EEOC, so complaints may be dually filed.
Does Connecticut have an anti-SLAPP statute?
Connecticut does not have a general anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants must rely on standard motion practice (motions to dismiss, summary judgment) rather than a special early-dismissal mechanism with automatic fee-shifting.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Connecticut?
Defamation claims in Connecticut must be filed within two years under CGS Section 52-597.
Related Civil Rights & Disputes Scenarios
Can I sue for libel over false online reviews?
Legal options when false online reviews damage business reputation or cause financial harm.
Can I sue for intentional infliction of emotional distress?
Legal options when someone intentionally or recklessly causes extreme emotional distress through outrageous conduct.
Can I sue for trespassing or property line disputes?
Legal options when neighbors, companies, or individuals trespass on your property or violate property boundaries.
Can I sue for police misconduct?
Understanding civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, the qualified immunity doctrine, and the process for holding law enforcement accountable.
Have a Specific Situation in Connecticut?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.