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 Texas. Employers are barred according to theses laws from using race as a basis for hiring, recruitment, setting wage levels, or granting promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the issue to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Gainesville plaintiff must also show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be proven if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Gainesville Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Gainesville lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Texas lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.