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Dispute Resolution Policy

Introduction​

The NGO.US Registry is committed to maintaining a fair and transparent domain registration system. This Dispute Resolution Policy outlines the procedures for resolving disputes related to .ngo.us domain registrations.

Types of Disputes​

1. Eligibility Disputes​

These disputes concern whether a domain holder meets the eligibility requirements for a .ngo.us domain.

Common grounds:

  • Organization does not qualify as a nonprofit
  • Organization is operating commercially
  • Organization is affiliated with a governmental body

2. Trademark Disputes​

These disputes involve conflicts between a registered .ngo.us domain and an existing trademark.

Common grounds:

  • Domain infringes on a registered trademark
  • Domain creates confusion with an existing brand
  • Domain was registered in bad faith

3. Content/Use Disputes​

These disputes relate to how a domain is being used.

Common grounds:

  • Domain is being used for prohibited activities
  • Content violates the terms of service
  • Domain is inactive or abandoned

Filing a Dispute​

Process for Filing​

  1. Preliminary Contact: Before filing a formal dispute, attempt to resolve the issue directly with the domain holder.

  2. Submit a Dispute Form: If direct contact is unsuccessful, complete our dispute form, which requires:

    • Your contact information
    • The disputed domain name
    • Nature of the dispute
    • Evidence supporting your claim
    • Documentation of attempts to resolve the issue directly

  3. Filing Fee: A non-refundable filing fee may be required to cover administrative costs.

Required Documentation​

Depending on the nature of your dispute, you may need to provide:

  • For Eligibility Disputes: Evidence that the domain holder does not meet eligibility requirements
  • For Trademark Disputes: Proof of trademark ownership and evidence of infringement
  • For Content/Use Disputes: Documentation of the violating content or improper use

Dispute Resolution Process​

1. Initial Review​

Upon receiving a dispute, the NGO.US Registry will:

  • Verify that the complaint is complete
  • Determine if the dispute falls within our jurisdiction
  • Notify the domain holder of the dispute

2. Response Period​

The domain holder will have 15 calendar days to respond to the dispute with:

  • Evidence supporting their eligibility
  • Explanation of their use of the domain
  • Any other relevant information

3. Evaluation​

Our dispute resolution panel will:

  • Review all submitted documentation
  • May request additional information
  • Evaluate the case based on our policies and terms

4. Decision​

The panel will issue a written decision within 30 days of completing the evaluation, which may:

  • Maintain the current domain holder's registration
  • Transfer the domain to the complainant
  • Suspend or terminate the domain registration

Appeals Process​

If either party disagrees with the decision, they may file an appeal within 14 days. Appeals must:

  • Identify specific errors in the initial decision
  • Provide additional evidence not previously available
  • Include an appeals processing fee

Implementation of Decisions​

  • Decisions will be implemented 10 days after the appeal period expires
  • If an appeal is filed, implementation will be suspended until the appeal is resolved
  • Once a final decision is reached, it will be implemented within 5 business days

Contact Information​

For questions about the dispute resolution process or to file a dispute, please contact our dispute resolution team at [email protected].

This policy may be updated periodically. The most current version will always be available on our website.

Last updated: April 2025