Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Louisiana. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion offers.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the power to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Ville Platte plaintiff must also show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. The required intent may be shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Ville Platte Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Ville Platte lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A good Louisiana attorney will also be able to assist you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.