Employment disputes involving long-serving employees can be particularly complex, with allegations of discrimination, disability, retaliation, and failure to accommodate creating both financial and reputational considerations. Early investigation and direct engagement can provide an opportunity to resolve disputes before they develop into costly and protracted litigation.
In this case, a 62-year-old former employee with more than 25 years' service alleged age and disability discrimination, retaliation, and failure to accommodate following her return from medical leave. Her counsel issued a demand letter and draft complaint seeking $650,000.
The EPL team participated in the investigation of the allegations and worked directly with the claimant's counsel to pursue an early resolution. This approach allowed the key issues to be addressed before formal litigation progressed, while maintaining a focus on managing the client's potential exposure and defense costs.
Key outcomes included:
- Settled for $12,500, compared to the claimant's $650,000 demand and an estimated verdict range of $400,000 to 1.4 million.
- Direct negotiation avoided the need for protracted litigation.
- Early intervention helped minimize potential defense costs and disruption.
The case highlights how early intervention and direct negotiation in employment practices liability matters. By understanding the allegations, evaluating potential exposure, and engaging with claimant counsel at an early stage, the EPL team helped deliver a proportionate resolution for the client.
Specialist EPL claims management brings together claims expertise, legal strategy, and stakeholder collaboration to help organizations manage employment disputes throughout their lifecycle. From initial investigation and reserve assessment through to negotiation, mediation, or trial monitoring, the team provides the oversight needed to support informed decisions and control costs.
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Brian Smith
Nicholas Gumpel
Tim Over
Rob Blasio
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