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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Rutherford County plaintiff must also show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Rutherford County 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. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Rutherford County lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. A good Tennessee attorney will also be able to assist you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.