Facts

Plaintiff Mahta Sharif worked for Mehusa Inc., an exporter of U.S. butter to its parent company in Iran. Sharif sued Mehusa for unpaid general and overtime wages, and for violation of California's Equal Pay Act.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Sharif claimed that when she was hired in 2009, Mehusa's owner promised her a certain salary amount, including an acquisition fee, which the company failed to pay her. She claimed she worked overtime for which she wasn't paid.

Sharif also claimed that the company committed gender discrimination when it hired and then replaced her with a male employee of equal skill, for the same job, but at a higher wage.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Mehusa claimed that Sharif was paid as promised, and didn't work overtime. The company contended that plaintiff was a secretary and the male employee was hired for a managerial position and was more qualified.

Result

The jury found that Mehusa did not owe Sharif any amounts for her claims for unpaid wages. The jury also found that Mehusa did not owe Sharif any amounts for her claim for unpaid overtime compensation. As to her gender discrimination claim under California Equal Pay Act, Sharif was awarded $12,290 in back wages plus $860 in interest and $13,150 in statutory liquidated damages, for a total judgment amount of $26,300.00.

Other Information

Plaintiff has filed a motion for attorneys' fees. The court will rule on the pending motion on Dec. 11. According to the defense, defendant also has it's own pending motion for attorneys' fees. FILING DATE: Aug. 10, 2012.

Deliberation

two days

Poll

10 to 2 (on liability and damages on the claim for violations of the Equal Pay Act)

Length

five days