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

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the East Hanover plaintiff must also prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination 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 an East Hanover 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 greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and an East Hanover attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Also, a New Jersey attorney can help 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.