Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Massachusetts. These laws prohibit employers from taking race into account in procedures for hiring, determining wage levels, or promotions and benefits.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the matter to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Berkley 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 governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Berkley attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An experienced Massachusetts 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.