Facts

Darlene Hoyt worked as an independent contractor for Career Systems Development Corp. (CSDC), providing services at the San Diego Job Corps Center. In October 2006, CSDC notified Hoyt that it had received approval from the Dept. of Labor to hire a full-time mental health professional rather than a part-time independent contractor, and as such, Hoyt's position was going to be terminated. On Jan. 26, 2007, after 20 years, Hoyt's mental health consultant position was terminated.

Hoyt filed suit against CSDC, as well as various directors of the company, alleging wrongful termination, retaliation, racial discrimination, and breach of contract.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Hoyt contended that although she was an exceptional employee, she was forced to work in an increasingly hostile environment, subject to harassment, retaliation, and discrimination because of her race, and eventually terminated.

She alleged that she was discriminated against because she was not black, like her two supervisors, and also alleged that black contractors received favorable treatment and raises.

Hoyt claimed that she was informed her termination was financial, even though CSDC hired a full-time mental health consultant, and that when she interviewed for the job, the interview was hostile.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
CSDC contended that Hoyt's contract was terminated pursuant to its terms, which specified that either party could terminate for any reason, with notice. CSDC further contended that Hoyt was notified verbally and in writing, and that it encouraged Hoyt to apply for the full-time position, but Hoyt decided not to interview.

CSDC claimed that Hoyt's wrongful termination claim was meritless due to her status as an independent contractor, and that she could not establish her termination was race-based.

Damages

Hoyt sought $1 million in damages for emotional distress and lost earnings.

Result

The jury rendered a verdict in favor of CSDC.