Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is banned in Michigan. 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 discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Coldwater plaintiff must additionally show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The required intent may be shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Coldwater Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be shown by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Coldwater attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Michigan 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.