N.J. Stat. Ann. § 10:5-1 et seq. § 10:5-38
Persons entitled to bring enforcement actions
Operative Text
Any individual who has been discriminated against in violation of the provisions of this act and any organization which represents or acts to further the interests of individuals who have been discriminated against by reason of any violation of the provisions of this act shall have standing in courts of law to institute actions to enforce the provisions of this act. L.1975, c. 127, s. 8.
Under N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. § 10:5-38, New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination grants standing to sue in court to two categories of parties: individuals who have personally experienced unlawful discrimination, and organizations whose mission includes representing or advancing the interests of people who have faced such discrimination. This means enforcement of the state's anti-discrimination protections is not limited to government agencies alone — private parties can bring their own lawsuits. The provision broadens access to the courts as a remedy for violations of the act.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination should be aware that N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. § 10:5-38 creates a wide enforcement landscape: both affected individuals and advocacy organizations have the legal standing to file civil actions in court. Compliant operators generally maintain non-discriminatory policies in tenant selection, lease terms, and housing services to reduce exposure to such claims. Keeping documented, consistent practices across all applicants and residents reflects the kind of operational standard that aligns with the act's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. § 10:5-38 establishes that individuals who believe they have been discriminated against in violation of New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination have the right to bring a lawsuit directly in court. Tenant-rights and fair-housing organizations also have standing under this provision to file actions on behalf of or in furtherance of the interests of those affected, which can be a meaningful resource for people navigating a potential claim. Those who believe their rights have been violated may consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand the range of options available under this provision.
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 6, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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