How do I prove discrimination?

You can show direct evidence (discriminatory statements, policies) or circumstantial evidence (differential treatment, statistical patterns, pretext for stated reasons) [42 U.S.C. 2000e-2].

What happens after I file?

The agency investigates, attempts mediation or conciliation, and may issue findings. If unresolved, you receive a right-to-sue letter allowing you to file a lawsuit.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Colorado Workplace Discrimination — Filing a Complaint

Q: What counts as workplace discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when an employer treats you less favorably because of a protected characteristic. Under the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA), protected classes include: race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation (including transgender status), religion, age (40+), disability, national origin, ancestry, marital status — applies to employers with 1+ employees; adds sexual orientation (including transgender status), ancestry, and marital status beyond federal law [§ 24-34-402].

Q: Can I file with both the state agency and EEOC?

Yes. CCRD is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are cross-filed; a right-to-sue notice is issued by CCRD after completing its investigation or upon request; employee may file a civil action after receiving the notice. Filing with one agency can often satisfy the requirements of the other through cross-filing agreements.

Protected classes, filing deadlines, and how to pursue a discrimination claim under Colorado and federal law.

The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) prohibits employment discrimination in Colorado §24-34-402.

Protected Classes

Under Colorado law, employers cannot discriminate based on: race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation (including transgender status), religion, age (40+), disability, national origin, ancestry, marital status — applies to employers with 1+ employees; adds sexual orientation (including transgender status), ancestry, and marital status beyond federal law.

Federal laws (Title VII, ADA, ADEA) provide additional protections for employees of employers with 15+ employees (20+ for age discrimination).

Types of Discrimination

Disparate treatment — intentional discrimination based on a protected characteristic

Disparate impact — neutral policies that disproportionately affect a protected group

Failure to accommodate — refusing reasonable accommodations for disability or religion

Harassment — creating a Hostile work environment based on a protected characteristic

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

You have Three hundred days after the alleged discriminatory or unfair employment practice occurred, for filing the administrative charge with the commission §24-34-403. CCRD is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are cross-filed; a right-to-sue notice is issued by CCRD after completing its investigation or upon request; employee may file a civil action after receiving the notice.

	Details
State Agency	Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD), Department of Regulatory Agencies
Federal Agency	EEOC
State Deadline	Three hundred days after the alleged discriminatory or unfair employment practice occurred, for filing the administrative charge with the commission §24-34-403
Federal Deadline	180 days (300 with deferral) [42 U.S.C. § 2000e-5]

⚠Filing deadlines are strictly enforced. Missing the deadline typically bars your claim entirely, regardless of its merits.

✓File with both the state agency and EEOC to preserve all options. A single filing can often be cross-filed with both agencies.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Employment Law)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Employment records

(pay stubs, contracts, offer letters)

Communication evidence

(emails, texts, performance reviews)

Witness information

(coworkers who can corroborate)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and employment situation.

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