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

In order to succeed on a claim for racial discrimination, the Marion plaintiff must additionally show that their employer intended to base the discrimination on race or nationality. Intent may be shown by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Marion Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to establish intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Marion lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. An experienced Virginia lawyer will also help you in filing your claim with the EEOC, as well as helping you obtain other forms of relief while your claim is being processed.