Under the U.S. Constitution, as well as Title VII of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of race in the state of South Dakota. According to such laws, an employer cannot use race as the basis for making decisions regarding hiring, recruitment, wage levels, or promotion offers.

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

The Aberdeen plaintiff must also be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. This intent is most often shown by proving that the employer preferentially treated those of other races and nationalities.

How Can an Aberdeen Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Also, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to prove intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Aberdeen lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Also, a South Dakota 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.