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. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

The Yelm plaintiff must also be able to show that the employer acted with intent to discriminate based on race in order to succeed in a racial discrimination claim. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Yelm Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Also, sometimes statements that were recorded and made by the employer regarding racial issues can be used to prove intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Yelm attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. 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.