The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of Vermont. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, determining pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than employees who are of another racial background.

The Colchester plaintiff must also be able to prove that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. The required intent may be proven by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Colchester Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a Colchester attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Vermont lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.