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.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Deerfield plaintiff also needs to show that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. 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 Deerfield Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Deerfield attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A Massachusetts 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.