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CONFIDENTIAL

Dec. 18, 1993

Employment Law
Slander
Defamation of Character

Confidential

Settlement –  $5,000

Judge

S. James Otero

Court

L.A. Superior Glendale


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Michael I. Brooks


Defendant

David D. Boyer


Facts

Plaintiff Tina DeVita is an independent contractor who cleans and paints apartments. Plaintiff, in her mid-30's, had been contracted by the Defendant owner of the subject apartment building for three years prior to the Defendant's hiring a new manager in the summer of 1991. The new manager allegedly became offensive toward the Plaintiff and accused her of stealing a portable refrigerator, one which may have been abandoned by a former tenant, from the premises. The manager then terminated Plaintiff's contract and gave slanderous accounts of the "theft," an allegation which he failed to prove. The manager insinuated to a prospective employer of Tina DeVita that Miss DeVita had stolen the refrigerator, when they called for reference.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff contends her demand was not only monetary, but rather she demanded a restoration of her reputation in writing. Plaintiff contends she did request $20,000 and her job back to the Defendant owner and Defendant owner offered $5,000 in addition to a satisfactory letter of reference.

Damages

$100,000 estimated value of loss of the ability to find work.


#112452

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