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.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Gloucester County plaintiff also needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. 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 a Gloucester County 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 a Gloucester County attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Also, a New Jersey 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.