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. Race discrimination includes situations where an employer treats their employee differently from other employees who are of a different race or nationality.

To succeed on a claim of racial discrimination, the Milton plaintiff must further show that his employer acted with an intent to discriminate based on race or nationality. The required intent may be shown by evidence that the employer rendered preferential treatment to workers who are of a different race or nationality than the plaintiff.

How Can a Milton Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some instances, intent to discriminate may also be proven by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Milton attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. 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 forms of remedies available to you while your claim is pending.