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 Texas. 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 federal agency known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has the authority to conduct investigations of workplace discrimination, and employees must file their discrimination claims wih the EEOC prior to suing in a civil court. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Burnet 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 Burnet attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. An experienced Texas lawyer will also guide you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other types of relief while your claim is being processed.