Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Niles plaintiff must additionally prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Niles Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to show intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Niles lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. An Illinois lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.