Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Maryland. 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?
Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.
To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Ellicott City plaintiff further 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 an Ellicott City Lawyer Help with My Claim?
In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Ellicott City lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Maryland lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.