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, determining pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Washington Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to establish intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a Washington attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. A Missouri lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.