The U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code both make racial discrimination illegal in the state of West Virginia. Employers may not take race into account according to these laws when hiring or recruiting workers, or when determining wages and promotion offers.

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 which has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Race or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you differently than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

To be successful in a racial discrimination claim, the Beckley employee must also prove that their employee had the required intent to discriminate based upon the person's race. Intent may be proved by demonstrating that the employer gave preferential treatment to people of other races or nationalities.

How Can a Beckley Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In certain instances, intent to discriminate may also be established by using recorded statements by the employer regarding racial issues. Laws governing the procedures in discrimination will vary widely depending on where the claim is filed, and Beckley attorneys will be able to help you with the requirements for your particular region. A West Virginia lawyer may also help you with filing a claim with the EEOC as well as guide you to other possible remedies while the case is pending.