WRF Secures Victory for Client THI in Title VII Case

August 31, 2004

Washington, DC—A Nevada jury has found in favor of Wiley Rein & Fielding client Trans Healthcare Inc. (THI) in a case involving a wrongful discharge complaint based on alleged violations of Title VII, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and Nevada public policy.

The three-day jury trial was held in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada. The plaintiff, a registered nurse, was terminated from her job on account of poor work performance, refusal to follow instructions and a poor attitude. She filed suit seeking compensatory and punitive damages, alleging race discrimination and retaliatory discharge under Title VII, age discrimination under the ADEA, and also that she was discharged in violation of Nevada public policy.

The judge granted defendant’s motion for judgment on the public policy and punitive damages claims at the end of the plaintiff's case, but permitted the jury to decide the three federal claims. After a three-day trial the jury deliberated for about one hour and returned verdicts in favor of THI on all counts.

WRF partner Charles C. Lemley tried the case. He was assisted by associates Emily J. Christiansen, Seth Blonder and Mariela Olivares.