In Missouri, racial discrimination is prohibited 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Smithville plaintiff further 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 Smithville Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Smithville lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Missouri 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.