Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is illegal 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 Arnold 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 an Arnold Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to establish intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so an Arnold lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. A good Pennsylvania attorney will also be able to assist you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.