Which is the first element of OCR's investigation elements?

• A. Complaint Evaluation
• B. Full Investigation
• C. Resolution
• D. Non-Compliance Determination

Answer: (B)

OCR’s investigation process begins with evaluating the complaint to decide if OCR has jurisdiction, if the issue is timely, and whether it falls within OCR’s authority. This complaint evaluation step serves as a screening to determine whether OCR should move forward. Only after this step, if the complaint passes evaluation, does OCR proceed to a Full Investigation where investigators gather facts, conduct interviews, review documents, and build the evidentiary record. After the investigation, OCR may pursue a resolution or issue a finding of noncompliance depending on what the evidence shows. So the first element is the evaluation of the complaint, not the full investigation.