The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission's process permits dismissal where the information does not support continuing the complaint under the Act. The procedure gives parties an opportunity to respond before the final decision described by the Commission.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Recommendation for dismissal
During investigation, a Human Rights Officer may conclude that the information gathered does not support the complaint and prepare a dismissal recommendation.
Party submissions
The Commission's current process gives the parties a period to make written submissions in response to the recommendation.
Decision by the Director and CEO
For the early dismissal route described by the Commission, the Director and CEO can accept the recommendation or return the complaint for further investigation.
Judicial review
The Commission states that a dismissal can be challenged through judicial review in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia. Judicial review examines the administrative decision under applicable public-law standards; it is not simply a new complaint hearing.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — complaint process
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — intake reassessments and appeals
- Nova Scotia Legislature — Human Rights Act