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 South Carolina. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion opportunities.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency in charge of investigating workplace discrimination, and employees discriminated against must file a claim with the EEOC before taking the matter to 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 Newberry 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 Newberry 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 Newberry lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. A good South Carolina 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.