STEP 1: Filing
If you think you, or someone you know, has been discriminated against in the city of Des Moines, please use the forms below to submit a complaint with the Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Commission.

You must file within 300 days of the most recent discriminatory incident. Police complaints can be filed at any time. We can help with preparing and filing documentation of your complaint.

Police Complaints

Complaints about police conduct can be filed with the Des Moines Police Office of Professional Standards or directly with the Civil and Human Rights Commission using the Non-Housing Complaint forms listed above.

STEP 2: Intake
To begin the preliminary investigation, we’ll work with you to file an initial complaint with an intake officer. This process includes an interview and review of the complaint for approval.

STEP 3: Mediation
The Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Commission will attempt to resolve your complaint before investigation, if both parties involved in the complaint agree to mediation efforts.

STEP 4: Investigation
If mediation is rejected or fails, the Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Commission will conduct a neutral, fact-finding investigation.

STEP 5: Litigation
When the investigation is complete, a public hearing will be set if the complaint meets the probable cause requirements necessary for legal action.