Frequently Asked Questions About Racial Discrimination | Mann & Elias
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Frequently Asked Questions About Racial Discrimination

Why You Should Hire A Racial Discrimination Lawyer For Your Case


Mann & Elias protect clients’ best interests during employment litigation. Many are unfamiliar with their employee rights, the ins and outs of filing a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or how to bring a lawsuit against an employer. You’ll need a lawyer after experiencing racism in the workplace to help you determine whether your employer’s actions are considered discriminatory and if you have a case. If not, there are other ways to hold them accountable for retaliation if your case does not warrant a lawsuit.

Is It Illegal Not to Hire Someone Based On Race?

It is illegal for any hiring manager to discriminate against applicants because of their race or ethnicity. During the application process, federal laws do not prohibit employers from asking you about your national origin. Still, they cannot use ethnicity or race to decide whether you get the job as a top candidate. Top discrimination lawyers encourage victims of racial discrimination to schedule a consultation before filing a complaint to your nearest EEOC office.

What Does a Discrimination Lawyer Do?

Racial discrimination lawyers help clients fight against any form of discrimination, prejudice and bias at work. They hold employers and companies accountable for unfair practices. An attorney can answer your questions, conduct an investigation, help you recover evidence and file a compensation claim.

When Should You Get a Discrimination Lawyer?

As soon as you suspect you’re experiencing racial discrimination. Given the nature of these cases, it’s important to build a strong case with evidence against an employer. You only have 180 days to file a charge with the EEOC. Once you receive a Notice of Right To Sue from the agency, we’ll have 90 days to file a lawsuit.

What Is Disparate Treatment Discrimination?

An employee or applicant can make a disparate treatment claim when they believe they were treated differently than other employees because of race. An employer can also commit disparate treatment discrimination based on physical characteristics usually associated with a particular race (hair color, texture, hairstyle, skin color, facial features, etc.)

What Is Disparate Impact Discrimination?

A disparate impact lawsuit refers to a situation in which the employee claims a policy, rule, or practice of the employer has a disproportionately negative impact on members of a certain race. An example could be a minimum height requirement which screens out more Asian-American and Latino applicants than other races.

What Is Racial Harassment?

Harassment because of race is illegal under state and federal law. Racial harassment includes slurs, jokes, or other acts that create a hostile or offensive work environment for people of a particular race.

Is It Still Considered Discrimination If It’s from Someone Of Your Race?

Yes – it is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates or employees of the same racial group. For example, a light-skinned employer of Nicaraguan descent harassing a dark-skinned employee of the same background at work.

You should not tolerate any form of discrimination, even if it’s a minor incident. Report it immediately.

Are Multi-racial Employees Protected from Racial Discrimination?

Bi-racial employees and applicants are protected from prejudice, bias, or any form of harassment at work based on their race or color.

How Do I Contact Or File a Complaint With The EEOC?

  • To file a complaint with the EEOC, you can call 1-800-669-4000
  • Reach out to one of 53 field offices by going to the Field Office List and Jurisdiction Map

How Does An EEOC Charge Affect Employers?

An EEOC charge of discrimination can impact employers significantly. Investigations will take place with employees during the day. The inquiry can negatively impact the employer’s image.

The agency treats each complaint seriously. The process may feel time-consuming for everyone involved, but it takes time to conduct a proper investigation. Employers typically invest significant time and money to get through the legalities with their employment attorney.

What Qualities Should a Lawyer Have?

There are a few things you should look for in a quality lawyer. Make sure to evaluate their years of experience, client testimonials, effective communication, and success rates. While there are thousands of lawyers to choose from, we strongly believe our success is based on:

  • 50+ years of trial experience
  • Excellent advocacy skills
  • Intense preparation and research
  • Quality care

Since our partnership began over 20 years ago, we have settled hundreds of claims, completed 100 jury and bench trials, and recovered more than $18 million in settlements. For dedicated representation with no upfront fees, give us a call at 323-866-9564 or email info@mannelias.com.

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