Q: Discrimination at my bank, I feel discriminated at the bank I do banking at. Do I possibly have a legal standing?
I talked with the bank manager about an incident I experienced with a bank employee, and I don’t feel I was taken seriously.
A:
Yes, you may have a legal standing here if you have experienced discrimination by your bank. Here are a few key things to consider in terms of legal protections and steps to take:
1) Discrimination Laws: Both federal and Missouri laws prohibit discrimination by banks and financial institutions based on protected categories like race, gender, national origin, religion etc. This includes experiences with employees.
2) Documentation: Note down details of the concerning incident - what was said/done, witnesses present etc. This creates records of evidence. Continue to document any incidents of potential discrimination when banking.
3) Reporting: File formal written complaints about the discrimination faced not only to the bank branch manager but also to corporate customer service hotlines and even regulatory authorities like Missouri Division of Finance and FDIC.
4) Legal Consultation: Approach a consumer rights lawyer and discuss if what you experienced seems to indicate a legal violation under anti-discrimination laws. If so, the lawyer can assist in taking strict legal action against the bank through regulatory complaints or lawsuits. This may prod the bank into appropriate corrective action and settlements.
In summary - document, report up the chain, get legal guidance on merits and options. Do not let any discriminatory treatment slide or go unaddressed. The law protects consumers and gives you recourse in such situations with banks.
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