Rodney S. Diggs

Los Angeles • Labor & Employment & Civil Rights

In just ten years, Rodney S. Diggs has achieved an exceptional level of success, securing more than $200 million in verdicts and settlements for his clients.

He has recently been retained by individuals across the nation in cases involving excessive force, wrongful death and employment matters. His reach now extends to clients in various states, including New York, Mississippi, Florida, Illinois, Tennessee and South Carolina, with many of his cases gaining national exposure.

Among the major cases where Diggs served as lead counsel, the Michael Ross jury trial stands out. This case, which stemmed from a teacher accusing the school district of wrongful termination and retaliation for a previous lawsuit and because he spoke up about alleged sexual misconduct by another employee, resulted in a $25 million verdict, the largest retaliation verdict against a school district.

"No longer will jurors tolerate employers terminating its workers because an employee follows the proper protocol and makes valid complaints about being harassed or discriminated," Diggs said. "An employee should not have to walk on eggshells or just accept being treated with discriminatory animus by someone in power and turn the other cheek and be happy they have a job. With a powerful verdict like the Ross case, employees know they have rights, they have a voice and they shouldn't be retaliated against for using their voice and following the laws of California."

Another significant case, Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation v. State Personnel Board and Vickie Mabry-Height, is notable for its impact on employment law. In this case, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act was invoked to challenge discrimination based on age, race and gender. The State Personnel Board's decision in favor of Dr. Mabry-Height was upheld, setting a precedent for employee rights.

Looking to the future, Diggs said one of the trends that must be addressed is artificial intelligence.

"With technology changing daily, AI will definitely change the practice and landscape of law," he said. "The question is, will it be for the benefit or the detriment of the legal field?"

Diggs is also an active participant in volunteer activities. His involvement with organizations such as the John M. Langston Bar Association and Watt's Labor Community Action Committee underscores his commitment to making a positive impact in his community.