I am thinking about filing a formal complaint. May I still contact the ombuds office before I file?
Yes. You may contact the ombuds without relinquishing your right to file a formal complaint. Keep in mind that there are many instances of insensitivity, unfairness, or miscommunication that may not necessarily be discrimination or harassment, and the ombuds office will help with those situations. In cases where situations do appear to affect legally protected rights, the ombuds office can refer visitors to UC Irvine resources equipped to accept formal complaints. However, please be aware that the period to file a complaint is sometimes time limited. | back to top | • If the ombuds is employed by UC Irvine, how independent can the ombuds be? Judges are employed by the government to be impartial, even if the government is a party to a lawsuit. Similarly, the ombuds is employed by UC Irvine to be a confidential, neutral, independent resource for the UC Irvine community. (The difference between a judge and an ombuds is that the ombuds cannot and will not serve as a decision-maker). UC Irv
