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 Martinez 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. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Martinez Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a Martinez attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Additionally, a California attorney can help you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.