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, determining 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 matters to court, employees who have been discriminated against must file their claim with the EEOC. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat workers differently than other workers who are of a different race.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Leesburg plaintiff must further prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Proof of an employer's intent to discriminate can be shown if they have preferentially treated workers of different races than the plaintiff.

How Can a Leesburg Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to prove intent. Laws of procedure vary greatly in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Leesburg lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Virginia lawyer will be able to help you out, and they can also point you towards other types of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.