and Federal laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of certain protected characteristics, both in Benton Harbor and elswhere in the state. Employers in the city of Benton Harbor, whether public or private, may be held liable under federal and state laws depending on the type of trait first prompted the discrimination.

How Does Employment Discrimination Occur?

An employer will be found guilty of employment discrimination if they treat an employee unfairly because they belong to a class that is legally protected. Traits that employers may not use to evaluate you include race, national origin, gender, religion and familial status. To prove employment discrimination in Benton Harbor, Michigan, the plaintiff needs to be able to show that the employer's intent to treat them unfairly was motivated by their protected status.

How can Employment Discrimination be Proven in Michigan?

This may be proved when there is a history of the employer treating members of the class similarly, or if witnesses testify about the employer's statements which would constitute bias as understood by a reasonable person. Additionally, employers who fire someone or retaliate against them for bringing a discrimination lawsuit are clearly in violation of the law.

Pursuing an employment discrimination claim can often be complicated, because they involve filing your claim with particular agencies. A Benton Harbor, Michigan lawyer can help you file in a timely manner, and while your case is pending, they can assist you in pursuing any available remedies.