DISPARATE IMPACT

disparate impact (dis-p<<schwa>>-rit). The adverse effect of a facially neutral practice (esp.

an employment practice) that nonetheless discriminates against persons because of their race, sex,

national origin, age,  or disability and that is not justified by business necessity. • Discriminatory

intent  is  irrelevant  in  a  disparate-impact  claim.  —  Also  termed  adverse  impact.  [Cases:  Civil

Rights    1033, 1140. C.J.S. Civil Rights §§ 18, 20, 23–24, 29, 144.] [Blacks Law 8th]