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, 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. Race discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their worker differently from other workers who are of a different race or nationality.

The Cheltenham plaintiff must further be able to prove that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Cheltenham Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to show their intent to discriminate. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Cheltenham lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Pennsylvania 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.