The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of Virginia. According to these laws, employers may not take race into account when hiring, recruiting, deciding pay or offering promotions.

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 discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Bluefield plaintiff additionally needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Bluefield Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to show intent. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary considerably, and so a Bluefield lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. A good Virginia attorney will also be able to advise you should you decide to file with the EEOC, and they can guide you towards other potential remedies while your case is pending.