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?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are done by the agency called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employees who are victims of discrimination are required to file their claim with the EEOC before filing suit in a court of law. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Blaine plaintiff must further show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Blaine Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Furthermore, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to show intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local Blaine lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Furthermore, a Washington attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.