In New Jersey, racial discrimination is banned 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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

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

How Can a West New York 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 greatly depending on where the claim is filed, and a West New York 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 types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.