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 Pennsylvania. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, deciding pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the power to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Aliquippa plaintiff must further show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an Aliquippa Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to prove intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Aliquippa lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A Pennsylvania 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.