Civil Rights & Disputes in Wisconsin
Key Wisconsin Law
Wisconsin Fair Employment Act — Wis. Stat. Section 111.31 et seq.
Wisconsin's Fair Employment Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age (40+), disability, arrest or conviction record, marital status, sexual orientation, and military service.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Agencies & Resources
Wisconsin Equal Rights Division (ERD)
State agency investigating employment discrimination complaints under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act.
EEOC Milwaukee Area Office
Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Wisconsin workers.
State Bar of Wisconsin — Lawyer Referral
Referral service for civil rights attorneys in Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early did Wisconsin add sexual orientation to its civil rights law?
Wisconsin added sexual orientation to its Fair Employment Act in 1982, making it one of the first states in the country to codify this protection. Wisconsin also protects workers based on arrest and conviction record.
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Wisconsin?
Complaints must be filed with the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Wisconsin has a worksharing agreement with the EEOC.
Does Wisconsin have an anti-SLAPP statute?
Wisconsin does not have a general anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants rely on standard motion practice.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Wisconsin?
Defamation claims in Wisconsin must be filed within three years under Wis. Stat. Section 893.57 — 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 Wisconsin?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.