Are there any legal remedies available to those who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Yes, those who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law in Michigan are eligible for legal remedies. These legal remedies are provided by the Fair Housing Act, a 1968 federal law prohibiting discrimination either in the sale or rental of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. In Michigan, the civil rights division of the state’s Department of Civil Rights serves as the enforcement agency. If the division finds that a violation of the Fair Housing Act has occurred, it can order the violator to stop the discriminatory practice. This may include taking action to make the situation right, such as providing the person with access to housing, awarding damages, or providing the person with monetary compensation. In addition, aggrieved parties may file a civil suit against the person or organization responsible for the illegal action. If the court finds the defendant liable, it may award compensatory and punitive damages. Michigan also allows the attorney general to take legal action against a violator of the Fair Housing Act, including the filing of criminal charges. In all cases, legal action must be taken as soon as possible after the discrimination has taken place. If the discriminatory act is not remedied in a timely manner, the victim may have lost out on potential remedies that could have been available.
Related FAQs
Are landlords required to accept Section 8 vouchers in accordance with Fair Housing Law?Are landlords allowed to discriminate against tenants based on their marital status under Fair Housing Law?
What specific actions can be taken by a landlord to comply with Fair Housing Law?
Are there any restrictions on the types of documents landlords are allowed to request from tenants under Fair Housing Law?
How can landlords and sellers offer incentives to tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Can a landlord deny a rental application because the applicant has children in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Do rental applicants have to meet certain criteria under Fair Housing Law?
What legal recourse is available to tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Is a landlord required to provide accessible features in units in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to deny applications based on a tenant's age under Fair Housing Law?
Related Blog Posts
What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023