Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is banned 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, determining 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 authority 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 differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Beaver County plaintiff must additionally prove that their employer intended to base the discrimination 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 Beaver County Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to establish intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Beaver County lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A good Pennsylvania attorney will also be able to advise you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.