The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of Washington. 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?

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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Airway Heights plaintiff also 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 an Airway Heights Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to prove their intent to discriminate. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Airway Heights attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A Washington lawyer may also assist you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.