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?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done 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 discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Vernon Hills Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Vernon Hills lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Illinois lawyer will also assist you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.