Particular characteristics are protected against discrimination under both and federal laws in Orangeburg and other communities of South Carolina. Government and private employers in Orangeburg may be held liable under state and federal law depending on what kind of trait the discriminatory treatment was based upon.

How Does Employment Discrimination Occur?

An employer will be found guilty of employment discrimination if they treat an employee unfairly because they belong to a class that is legally protected. Employers are prohibited from using particular traits to evaluate you such as national origin, religion, race, age, familial status, or gender. In order for a claim of employment discrimination to be proven, an Orangeburg, South Carolina plaintiff must show that his (or her) employer actively intended to treat him differently because of his protected status.

How can Employment Discrimination be Proven in South Carolina?

This may be proved when there is a history of the employer treating members of the class similarly, or if witnesses testify about the employer's statements which would constitute bias as understood by a reasonable person. Additionally, employers may be held liable for firing someone or retaliating against them because they brought a discrimination lawsuit.

The procedure for pursuing an employment discrimination claim is complicated, since it involves filing a claim with certain agencies. An Orangeburg, South Carolina lawyer can help you file in a timely manner, and while your case is pending, they can assist you in pursuing any available remedies.