In North Carolina, racial discrimination is banned under both the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. Employers may not take race into account according to these laws when hiring or recruiting workers, or when determining wages and promotion offers.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the matter to court. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

The Smithfield plaintiff must additionally be able to prove that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. This intent is most often proven by showing that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can a Smithfield Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain 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 Smithfield attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A North Carolina 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.