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, determining pay or offering promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Federal investigations of workplace discrimination are conducted 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 differently than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

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

How Can a Brier Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Additionally, in some circumstances, recorded employer statements regarding racial issues can be used to establish their intent to discriminate. Procedural laws in this area of litigation vary greatly depending on where you file your claim, and a local Brier lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a Washington 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.