Inner Workings of the MCAD

First established in 1946 as the Fair Employment Practices Commission with a staff of two and three volunteer commissioners, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) now occupies a central role in investigating and prosecuting claims of employment discrimination involving Massachusetts employees and employers. All claimants wishing to vindicate their rights under Massachusetts anti-employment-discrimination statutes must first file their cases with the MCAD.

Attend this program for a unique opportunity to meet and hear from the MCAD’s new Senior Hearing Officer, an MCAD Attorney Advisor, an MCAD Compliance Officer, and experienced practitioners who regularly handle cases before the Commission. Hear them explain the intake and investigation process-including position statements and rebuttals, opportunities for alternative dispute resolution, the discovery and public hearing process, the impact of the Commission’s revised procedural regulations, practice in the time of COVID-19, and other changes at the Commission. For practitioners new to the MCAD, this program provides a valuable explanation of the inner workings of the Commission at every stage of its investigation and enforcement process. For experienced practitioners, the program offers an opportunity to hear directly from key Commission officials and improve your efficacy in advocating for your clients, whether employees or employers. Bring your questions!