Civil Rights & Disputes in Delaware
Key Delaware Law
Delaware Discrimination in Employment Act — 19 Del. C. Section 710 et seq.
Delaware's Discrimination in Employment Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age (40+), disability, marital status, and genetic information. Delaware also has a strong Equal Accommodations Law covering public accommodations.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Delaware
Delaware Agencies & Resources
Delaware Office of Anti-Discrimination
State agency investigating employment discrimination complaints under Delaware law; 120-day filing deadline applies.
EEOC Philadelphia District Office (DE)
Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Delaware workers.
Delaware State Bar Association — Lawyer Referral
Referral service for civil rights and discrimination attorneys licensed in Delaware.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint with Delaware's state agency?
Delaware's Office of Anti-Discrimination requires complaints to be filed within 120 days of the discriminatory act — one of the shortest state filing windows in the country. If you miss the state deadline, you may still be able to file with the EEOC within 300 days for federal claims.
Does Delaware protect sexual orientation and gender identity in public accommodations?
Yes. Delaware's Equal Accommodations Law prohibits discrimination in places of public accommodation based on sexual orientation and gender identity, in addition to the standard protected classes.
Does Delaware have an anti-SLAPP statute?
Delaware does not have a codified general anti-SLAPP statute. Some Delaware courts have recognized common law protections for petitioning activity, but there is no special early-dismissal motion with automatic fee-shifting available statewide.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Delaware?
Defamation claims in Delaware must generally be filed within two years under 10 Del. C. Section 8119.
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 Delaware?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.