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?

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 or nationality discrimination involves an employer treating you adversely than those you work with that are of other races or nationalities.

The Point Pleasant plaintiff must further 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 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 Point Pleasant Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. Laws of procedure vary considerably in this area of law depending on where you file your claim, and local Point Pleasant lawyers will be familiarized with the requirements of your geographical region. Should you decide to file your claim at the EEOC, a West Virginia 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.