Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Illinois. 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. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

The Litchfield plaintiff must further be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Litchfield Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Litchfield attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Furthermore, an Illinois attorney can assist 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.