Fair Housing

What is 'pattern or practice' discrimination and how is it different from individual discrimination in Illinois?

APattern discrimination involves multiple incidents; individual discrimination involves a single incident; same legal consequences
BPattern or practice discrimination refers to systematic, widespread discriminatory conduct by an organization rather than isolated incidents; DOJ or Illinois AG can bring these broader enforcement actions✓ Correct
CPattern discrimination requires multiple complainants; individual discrimination requires only one
DThey are legally identical; courts do not distinguish between the two

Explanation

Pattern or practice discrimination refers to systematic discriminatory conduct affecting multiple people—a regular practice or established policy rather than an isolated incident. The Department of Justice (for federal law) and Illinois Attorney General (for state law) can bring 'pattern or practice' cases when evidence shows systemic discrimination by a landlord, lender, or real estate company. These cases can result in injunctive relief, large penalties, and monitoring requirements.

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