Racial discrimination is banned in California under the U.S. constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion opportunities.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

The Merced County plaintiff must additionally be able to prove that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Merced County Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Merced County lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced California lawyer will also help you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.