Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin Secures Defense Verdict on an Employment Discrimination and Retaliation Matter

Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin Shareholder Shannon Finley partnered with co-counsel to secure a defense verdict in an employment litigation matter in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Her client faced claims involving retaliation as well as discrimination on the basis of disability and age.

In a lawsuit filed in 2023, Plaintiff sued her former employer for a number of employment issues, including violation of the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) as well as retaliation, failure to provide a reasonable accommodation, and failure to engage in the interactive process. 

Ms. Finley succinctly proved through detailed presentation of evidence that her client was not in any violation of Plaintiff’s rights and had thoroughly engaged in the interactive process throughout Plaintiff’s multiple and extended requests for leave and accommodation. After a 5-day trial, the jury returned a verdict in favor of Ms. Finley’s client, confirming that Plaintiff’s employment was not terminated due to any type of discrimination or retaliation.

While employment litigation claims so rarely result in a jury trial, Ms. Finley’s distinctive victory on behalf of her client highlights the firm’s dedication and trial readiness to represent California employers successfully in the courtroom when warranted.

About Shannon R. Finley, Esq.

Shannon Finley is a shareholder in Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin’s San Diego office. A leader in the firm’s employment and labor group, Ms. Finley provides comprehensive litigation support to California employers and guidance on best practices to avoid lawsuits before they arise.  She is a speaker and author on a wide range of topics and has been recognized as a Rising Star by San Diego Super Lawyers® and received the C. Hugh Friedman New Lawyer Award from Lawyers Club of San Diego for her leadership and professionalism in the San Diego legal community. She currently serves as the Director of Legal Education for the San Diego HR Forum and on the Board of Directors of California Women Lawyers as well as a fellow of the American Bar Foundation.

About Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin

Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin PC is a leading AV-rated, full-service trial firm with expertise in litigating and resolving civil matters in both state and federal courts.  The firm represents clients in the areas of Appellate, Business Litigation, Community Association Litigation, Employment & Labor, Personal Injury, Product Liability, Professional Liability, Real Estate Litigation, Restaurant & Hospitality, Retail, Transactional & Business Services, Transportation, and Trial & Civil Litigation. Clients include large and mid-sized corporations, privately held businesses, institutions, and individuals. Pettit Kohn is located in California and Arizona with offices in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Learn more about the firm at www.pettitkohn.com.