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HUMAN RIGHTS · NOVA SCOTIA

Human Rights Intake Reassessment and Appeals in Nova Scotia

Learn what can happen when the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission does not accept an inquiry.

The Commission publishes a written reassessment and appeal process for people who disagree with an intake decision that their inquiry does not meet the criteria for a complaint.

Sources checked September 29, 2026.

Registrar reassessment

A person can submit the Commission's reassessment and appeal material in writing. The Registrar reviews the information and can return the inquiry for a complaint to be drafted or uphold the intake decision with reasons.

Appeal to the Director and CEO

If the Registrar upholds the decision, the person can request a final decision from the Director and CEO of the Commission.

Final within the Commission

The Director and CEO's decision is final within the Commission's internal intake process.

Judicial review

The Commission states that further challenge is by an application for judicial review to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia. Judicial review is a court process with its own legal standards and procedural requirements.

Official sources

Legal information, not legal advice. This page provides general information about Nova Scotia human-rights law. Whether the Human Rights Act applies depends on the facts, jurisdiction and current law.