Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Maine. 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 federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the authority to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Norway plaintiff must additionally prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Norway Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Norway lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. A good Maine attorney will also be able to advise you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.