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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

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

How Can a West Orange 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 West Orange 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.