Facts

In October 2005, plaintiff Jacqueline Howard, employed as a manager by Wells Fargo Bank in Oakland for 21 years, was demoted to assistant manager. Howard brought an action against Wells Fargo. Among the plaintiff's claims was retaliation, which was dismissed by the court before the start of trial.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Howard contended that her demotion was due to her gender and/or as retaliation because of a gender discrimination complaint filed in July 2003 with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing. She also alleged she was demoted for taking time off from March 2005 through May 2005 for a work-related injury, also a violation of the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Wells Fargo contended that Howard's demotion occurred as a result of legitimate business reasons.

Damages

Howard claimed that she was entitled to damages for emotional distress as well as past and future lost earnings. Wells Fargo asserted that Howard suffered no damages and that she did not lose any earnings.

Result

A verdict was returned in favor of the defense.

Other Information

After trial, Wells Fargo filed a memorandum of costs amounting to $8,349.41.

Deliberation

five hours

Poll

12-0

Length

five days