Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is illegal in Maine. 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 federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the power 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 adversely than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Rumford plaintiff also needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Rumford Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Rumford lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Maine lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other forms of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.