Civil Rights & Disputes in Massachusetts
Key Massachusetts Law
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B prohibits employment and housing discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age (40+), ancestry, physical or mental disability, retaliation, active military personnel, and breastfeeding. Chapter 151C covers educational discrimination.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Agencies & Resources
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
State agency investigating discrimination in employment, housing, credit, and public accommodations.
EEOC Boston Area Office
Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Massachusetts workers.
Massachusetts Bar Association — Lawyer Referral
Referral service for civil rights attorneys in Massachusetts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Massachusetts civil rights protections?
Massachusetts has several notable features: Chapter 151B covers breastfeeding and active military status explicitly; the separate Massachusetts Civil Rights Act (MCRA) creates a cause of action for civil rights interference by threats or coercion even by private parties; and Massachusetts has an anti-SLAPP statute protecting petitioning activity.
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Massachusetts?
Complaints must be filed with the MCAD within 300 days of the discriminatory act. MCAD has a worksharing agreement with the EEOC. After filing, a complainant may withdraw and file suit in court after 90 days.
Does Massachusetts have an anti-SLAPP statute?
Yes. Massachusetts's anti-SLAPP statute (MGL c.231, §59H) applies to claims arising from a party's exercise of the right of petition under the Massachusetts or US Constitution, including statements made in connection with government proceedings. Successful defendants are entitled to mandatory attorney's fees.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Massachusetts?
Defamation claims in Massachusetts must be filed within three years under MGL c.260, §4 — one of the longer defamation windows nationally.
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 Massachusetts?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.