BREAKING: A Los Angeles jury has just awarded a staggering $103 million in a landmark age discrimination case against Liberty Mutual, one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S. This verdict marks the highest amount ever awarded for age discrimination in U.S. history.
The jury found that Liberty Mutual engaged in age discrimination, harassment, and retaliation against former employee Joy Slagel, a dedicated worker who served the company for over 30 years. The verdict was delivered earlier today, highlighting systemic issues within the company regarding its treatment of older employees.
Joy Slagel alleged she faced discrimination after reporting what she observed as a corporate shift favoring younger workers. Despite her exemplary performance record, Slagel was fired shortly after submitting internal complaints about ageist hiring practices. The jury’s decision is a significant blow to Liberty Mutual, sending a powerful message about the legal consequences of age discrimination.
Legal representation for Slagel was led by Justin Shegerian of Shegerian & Associates, who emphasized the importance of this verdict. “This verdict is a resounding message to corporations nationwide,” Shegerian stated. “Age discrimination is illegal, it is harmful, and juries will hold employers accountable.”
The trial revealed that Slagel’s termination followed a fabricated investigation aimed at silencing her complaints. Testimonies from other long-tenured employees corroborated Slagel’s claims, exposing a pattern of dismissing older workers in favor of younger, less experienced staff.
The jury awarded Slagel $20 million in compensatory damages and an unprecedented $83 million in punitive damages. This verdict not only sets a national record but also establishes a new benchmark for accountability in cases of age discrimination.
Shegerian noted the historical significance of the case, which dates back to its initial filing in 2017. After a tumultuous legal journey, including a dismissal that once imposed sanctions on Slagel, the Appellate Court revived the case in 2023.
“This victory is meaningful, not just because of its size, but because of the long, difficult road it took to get here,” Shegerian added, highlighting the emotional weight of the verdict for Slagel and other employees facing similar discrimination.
The case serves as a stark reminder for corporations to reassess their workplace practices and protect employees from age-related biases. As the youngest first chair to win such a significant age discrimination verdict, Shegerian’s achievement further underscores the importance of advocacy in the legal profession.
WHAT’S NEXT: This ruling could pave the way for other employees facing similar injustices to come forward, as it sets a precedent that age discrimination will not be tolerated. The implications of this case are far-reaching, impacting corporate policies and employee rights across the country.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
