How Does the Department of Justice (DOJ) Enforce the Fair Housing Act?
The DOJ may start a lawsuit where it has reason to believe that a person or entity is engaged in a “pattern or practice” of discrimination or where a denial of rights to a group of persons raises an issue of general public importance. Through these lawsuits, the DOJ can obtain money damages, both actual and punitive damages, for those individuals harmed by a defendant’s discriminatory actions as well as preventing any further discriminatory conduct. The defendant may also be required to pay money penalties to the United States. In addition, brings cases where a housing discrimination complaint has been investigated by and HUD has issued a charge of discrimination and one of the parties has elected to go on to federal court. Finally, where force or a threat of force is used to deny or interfere with fair housing rights, the DOJ may begin criminal proceedings. The FHCO staff at 503/223-8197 Ext. 2 or 800/424-3247 Ext. 2 can put you in touch with the DOJ or you may visit their website at
