Facts

Laurence Hughes sued the County of Humboldt, involving allegations of gender discrimination.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff worked for the county as an employment training supervisor. In 2009, he applied for a middle management position, but despite his significant experience, he was passed up for the position. Plaintiff claimed he was denied the position in favor of a female who had significantly less experience. He sued the county for gender discrimination. Plaintiff resigned from the county the following year.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant claimed that the candidate picked for the position was chosen because of her ability to collaborate with others.

Injuries

Hughes allegedly suffered from high blood pressure as a reaction to the county's rejection.

Result

The jury rendered a verdict in favor of Hughes and awarded him $185,000 in total damages, which included $125,000 in emotional distress damages and $60,000 in lost wages.