Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited 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. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Waldoboro plaintiff must further show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Waldoboro Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to show their intent to discriminate. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Waldoboro attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. 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.