Facts

Pauline Medina was the office manager and lead administrator for City of Los Angeles Councilman Jose Huizar. Medina eventually resigned from her position and sued both Huizar and the city for workplace harassment, retaliation, and constructive discharge. Medina voluntarily dismissed the constructive discharge and retaliation claims. After Huizar moved for summary judgment on Medina's disability discrimination claim, he was dismissed from the action and the suit continued against the city.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that after she complained about ethical violations by Huizar, including that he gave preferential treatment to another employee that he was having an affair with, she was stripped of certain duties in retaliation. Plaintiff contended that she suffered from anxiety, muscle pains and panic attacks, which led her to take a leave of absence from work, under her doctor's recommendation. When she returned, she contended that she was given tasks normally given to student interns, such as moving boxes. She contended that she suffered an injury from moving heavy boxes and she had to take another leave of absence, and after that, she resigned.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Defendant denied the contentions and contended that plaintiff was delegated those tasks due to her performance and based on the office's needs. Defendants also contended that since plaintiff voluntarily resigned, she suffered none of her claimed damages.

Damages

Pauline Medina suffered from muscle pains and panic attacks, as well as anxiety.

Result

The city agreed to pay $50,000 before trial, on behalf of all defendants.