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, 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. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than workers who are of another racial background.

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Elizabethtown plaintiff must additionally show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can an Elizabethtown 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. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Elizabethtown lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Additionally, a Pennsylvania attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.