In New Jersey, racial discrimination is illegal under both the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. These laws prohibit employers from taking race into account in procedures for hiring, deciding wage levels, or promotions and benefits.

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 issue to court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the East Brunswick plaintiff must also show that their employer intended to base the discrimination 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 an East Brunswick Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and an East Brunswick attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a New Jersey 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.