Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Illinois. 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.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Lake Barrington plaintiff must also prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be proven by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Lake Barrington 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 greatly, and so a Lake Barrington lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Illinois lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.