Attorney General Jay Jones announced on April 15 that Virginians should understand the process for reporting housing discrimination, as part of Fair Housing Month. The Office of the Attorney General said residents do not need a lawyer to file a complaint and can start by submitting it for free to the Virginia Fair Housing Office.
This announcement is important because it aims to make sure all Virginians are aware of their rights and the steps they can take if they face discrimination in housing. The office seeks to protect equal access and address violations through legal action when necessary.
“The law protects Virginians in every step of the housing journey. My office will bring those who have been found to block equal access with discriminatory actions to court on behalf of the hardworking people of the Commonwealth,” said Attorney General Jay Jones. Liz Hayes, Director of the Fair Housing Office, said, “The Virginia Fair Housing Office is committed to conducting thorough impartial investigations of housing discrimination complaints. Our goal is to ensure the Boards and the Office of the Attorney General have the information needed to make informed decisions and pursue enforcement, when necessary.”
After a complaint is received, investigators review documents, conduct interviews with all parties involved, and may attempt mediation before deciding if there is reasonable cause for further action. If reasonable cause is found after investigation, findings are presented at meetings held by either the Fair Housing Board or Real Estate Board for cases involving licensees. If these boards determine that discrimination occurred, then “the Office of the Attorney General steps in and brings the case to court on behalf of the Commonwealth.” Relief may include monetary compensation for victims or policy changes.
The Attorney General’s authority also allows direct court action in cases showing patterns or practices against fair housing protections or matters deemed important for public interest. According to the official website, this office supports civil rights enforcement programs across Virginia and provides legal counsel while promoting public safety and defending constitutional rights.
The Attorney General’s work also includes addressing issues such as human trafficking and domestic violence through legal advocacy according to its official website. Services offered include consumer protection resources like identity theft prevention tools as noted online.
Miyares holds position as 48th Attorney General serving all residents statewide according to state records.
