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?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Discrimination based on race involves an employer who treats worker(s) differently than employees who are of another racial background.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Vienna plaintiff must further prove that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Vienna Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Depending on where you file your claim, the procedural laws will vary greatly, and so a Vienna lawyer will help familiarize you with the requirements for your district. 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.