Grand Rapids — Ch. 176 Human Rights § 9.972
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Operative Text
(1) To the extent allowed by law, a person alleging a violation of this Chapter may bring a civil action for appropriate injunctive relief, damages, or both against the person(s) who acted in violation of this Chapter. (2) Damages may include those for injury or loss caused by each violation of this Chapter, including reasonable attorney fees. (3) Private actions and remedies under this Section shall be in addition to any actions for violations which the City Attorney's Office may take.
Grand Rapids Ch. 176 Human Rights § 9.972 establishes that individuals who believe their rights under Chapter 176 have been violated may pursue a civil lawsuit seeking injunctive relief, monetary damages, or both. Recoverable damages can include compensation for any injury or loss resulting from each violation, as well as reasonable attorney fees. These private legal remedies exist alongside, and do not replace, any enforcement actions the City Attorney's Office may independently pursue.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Grand Rapids Ch. 176 Human Rights § 9.972, property owners and managers should be aware that a person alleging a Chapter 176 violation can bring a private civil lawsuit seeking injunctive relief and damages, including attorney fees, in addition to any action the City Attorney's Office may take. Operators who maintain documented, consistent, and non-discriminatory practices across all housing transactions are generally better positioned to demonstrate compliance. Understanding that dual enforcement exposure exists — both private suits and City Attorney action — is an important part of managing fair housing obligations under this Chapter.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Grand Rapids Ch. 176 Human Rights § 9.972 gives individuals who believe they have experienced a violation of Chapter 176 the right to file a civil lawsuit seeking injunctive relief, damages for injury or loss, and potentially reasonable attorney fees. This private right of action exists independently of any steps the City Attorney's Office may take, meaning both avenues can be pursued simultaneously. Tenants who believe their rights under this Chapter have been violated may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider to understand the range of remedies available to them.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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