In Montana, 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?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Billings plaintiff must additionally show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be proven if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Billings Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Billings attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Additionally, a Montana attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.