Civil Rights & Disputes in Hawaii
Key Hawaii Law
Hawaii Employment Practices Law — HRS Section 378-1 et seq.
Hawaii's Employment Practices Law prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, color, ancestry, disability, marital status, HIV infection status, arrest and court record, and domestic or sexual violence victim status.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Hawaii
Hawaii Agencies & Resources
Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC)
State agency investigating discrimination complaints under Hawaii law in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
EEOC Honolulu Local Office
Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Hawaii workers.
Hawaii State Bar Association — Lawyer Referral
Referral service for civil rights and employment discrimination attorneys in Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hawaii prohibit discrimination based on criminal history?
Hawaii's Employment Practices Law prohibits discrimination based on arrest and court records unless the conviction is directly related to the job. This is a broader "ban the box" style protection than federal law provides.
How long do I have to file a civil rights complaint in Hawaii?
Complaints must be filed with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act. This is a shorter window than many states with 300-day filing periods.
Does Hawaii have an anti-SLAPP statute?
Hawaii does not have a codified general anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants must rely on standard civil procedure motions rather than a special early-dismissal mechanism.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Hawaii?
Defamation claims in Hawaii must generally be filed within two years under HRS 657-4.
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 Hawaii?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.