The North Dakota Protection & Advocacy Project (P&A) strives to be professional, objective, and fair in all aspects of its work. If you are not satisfied with P&A, you have the right to complain using the formal grievance procedure.
You may file a grievance if:
- You requested services from P&A.
- You’re a current or former client of P&A.
- You’re the parent of a minor child who requested services from P&A.
- You’re the parent of a minor child who is a current/former client of P&A.
- You’re a court-appointed guardian for a person who requested services from P&A.
- You’re a court-appointed guardian for a current/former client of P&A.
Issues that you may grieve are:
- P&A’s decision to not provide advocacy or legal services.
- The amount, quality, or kind of services being provided by P&A.
- P&A activities or policies that you believe are not legal.
- Actions or inactions of a P&A employee.
To start the grievance process, submit your written complaint to P&A’s Executive Director within fifteen days of the decision or action that you’re dissatisfied with. P&A will thoroughly investigate your concern and you will receive a written response. If you continue to be dissatisfied, you may appeal the decision to the Committee on Protection & Advocacy (P&A’s governing board). Grievance information and timelines can be found at NDAC 65.5-01-05.
Public Inquiry Process
The public inquiry process is available to facilitate communication among P&A and members of the public when more informal means of communication are not appropriate. Any issue that is not eligible for the grievance process may be appropriate under the public inquiry process. This includes issues presented by people who are not eligible to utilize the grievance procedure, such as service providers. Further information can be found at NDAC 65.5-01-06.
Accommodations
P&A will provide reasonable disability-related accommodations to ensure individuals can effectively participate in the grievance process. This may include providing materials in an alternative format or providing assistance to help write the complaint. Contact P&A for more information.