In New York, racial discrimination is illegal under both the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code. Employers are barred according to theses laws from using race as a basis for hiring, recruitment, setting wage levels, or granting promotions.

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 Mechanicville 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 Mechanicville Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Mechanicville lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A New York lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.