In Missouri, racial discrimination is banned under both the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, deciding pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking issues to court, employees that have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Lee's Summit 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 Lee's Summit 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. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and Lee's Summit attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A Missouri lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.