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 deciding 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 that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. Racial discrimination claims involve situations where an employers treat employees differently than other employees who are of a different race.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the New Martinsville plaintiff further needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a New Martinsville Lawyer Help with My Claim?

Recorded statements about racial issues that were made by the employer can also be used in some cases to prove intent. Procedural laws in this area of litigation differentiate considerably depending on where you file your claim, and a local New Martinsville lawyer will be familiar with requirements in your area. Furthermore, a West Virginia 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.