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What documents are necessary to prove employment discrimination?

On Behalf of | Jan 18, 2024 | Employee Discrimination

Discrimination on the job in Illinois is an occurrence that happens too often. Unfortunately, many employees do not gather the essential documents necessary to pursue a successful discrimination case. Consider what you will need to ensure a successful outcome for your case.

Employer documents to prove your claim

Although workplace documentation is necessary to provide proof of employment discrimination, you should take care not to accept and disclose information that may have trade secrets, other employees’ personal information and proprietary and confidential information. The four types of documents that can back up your claims are the following:

  • Job performance evaluations
  • Emails, texts and related messages
  • Arbitration agreements
  • Demographics and associated information on prior lawsuits

Documents that fall into these four informational categories should be available relatively early in an employment dispute. While each category on its own may not definitely prove a discrimination case, gathering evidence of different types can show a pattern of discrimination. Information about previous lawsuits can be especially crucial if prior claims involve the category of discrimination that your claim cites. Such information is available in various forms, including search engine queries and public records. You may have access to a much broader range of documents as the case progresses.

Workplace discrimination takes many forms

No two workplace discrimination cases are alike, which is why you must gather thorough evidence for your claim. Common types of discrimination include:

  • Harassment
  • Wrongful termination
  • Gender identity
  • National identity
  • Religious affiliation
  • Disability

Unfair treatment covers many additional categories. American law protects employees against unfair employment discrimination under a variety of circumstances. If you feel you have suffered at the hands of your employer due to unjust termination, being wrongfully passed up on a promotion or other types of unfair treatment, you may be able to file a claim against your employer. Just make sure that you gather as much evidence as possible to ensure your success.