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 Tennessee. 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 federal agency that is in charge of investigations of workplace discrimination is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Before taking issues to court, employees that have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you adversely than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Franklin employee must also show that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Franklin Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to establish intent. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Franklin attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An experienced Tennessee lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.