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, deciding 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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Middlebury plaintiff must additionally show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Middlebury Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and Middlebury attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A Vermont lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.