Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Massachusetts. These laws prohibit employers from taking race into account in procedures for hiring, deciding 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 issue to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Bristol County plaintiff additionally needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Bristol County 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. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Bristol County lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. An experienced Massachusetts lawyer will also help you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.