1. Make an inquiry
Consult the Commission’s intake instructions and submit the current inquiry form through its official process. Contact the Commission about assistance or accessibility needs.
2. Commission assessment
Commission staff assess whether the matter falls within the Act, including the alleged conduct, protected characteristic, covered area, timing and provincial jurisdiction. They may ask for more detail before making an intake decision.
3. Complaint acceptance
If the inquiry meets the relevant criteria, a complaint form may be drafted for signature. An inquiry and an accepted formal complaint are different steps.
4. Resolution and investigation
The Commission describes early-resolution opportunities and, where a complaint cannot be resolved, investigation and possible further decisions. Not every inquiry reaches investigation or a hearing. Read the official process for the current sequence and options.
Official primary sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — making an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — submitting an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — complaint process
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — inquiry form and guidance