Facts

Percy-Marie Lacy filed a lawsuit against the San Francisco Zoological Society.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Lacy was employed by the San Francisco Zoo as an animal keeper and went on a medical leave of absence in 2009, following a workplace injury. Lacy alleged that in August 2010, she requested workplace accommodations for certain temporary restrictions given after she had a medical evaluation. Lacy contended that the San Francisco Zoo refused to accommodate her requested restrictions. Lacy further contended that the San Francisco Zoo also refused to grant any accommodations in January and February 2011, even though she only had one minor restriction. Lacy alleged that she returned to work in September 2011, but because she had been forced to remain on unpaid leave between August 2010 and September 2011, she lost wages. She alleged, therefore, that the San Francisco Zoo failed to reasonably accommodate her. She also alleged that the San Francisco Zoo failed to prevent discrimination and retaliation.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The San Francisco Zoo denied the allegations of Lacy's claims. The San Francisco Zoo argued that Lacy's restrictions prevented her from performing the essential functions of an animal keeper or other open positions.

Damages

Lacy claimed she suffered $50,000 in lost wages and also argued she suffered emotional distress damages.

Result

The parties settled Lacy's claims for $105,000. Thereafter, the court granted Lacy $444,752 in attorney fees and $31,210.74 in costs.

Other Information

FILING DATE: July 19, 2012.