Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is prohibited to discriminate on the basis of race in the state of Oklahoma. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, determining pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Newcastle plaintiff must further prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based 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 a Newcastle Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Newcastle lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, an Oklahoma 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.