Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of race in the state of Tennessee. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion offers.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking issues to court, employees that have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Lafayette plaintiff must also show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The required intent may be shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Lafayette Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Lafayette lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. A good Tennessee attorney will also be able to assist you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.