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Employment Law
Race Discrimination
Retaliation

Betty Dunson v. County of Los Angeles, Department of Children & Family Services

Published: Aug. 13, 2005 | Result Date: May 6, 2005 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: BC299723 Verdict –  $0

Judge

Elihu M. Berle

Court

L.A. Superior Central


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Benjamin Robinson


Defendant

Tomas A. Guterres
(Collins Collins LLP)

John J. Collins


Facts

Betty Dunson began working for the County of Los Angeles Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) as a children's social worker in 1974. In 1991, Dunson filed an appeal with the Civil Service Commission claiming that she was not promoted because she was black. The Commission eventually ordered that she be promoted to supervising children's social worker and have her performance evaluation raised to "outstanding." DCFS promoted her, but failed to change her evaluation. She applied for various transfers and promotions over the next few years, but was denied all requests. The Department of Fair Employment and Housing issued her a right to sue letter in 2002.

Settlement Discussions

Dunson demanded $680,000. The defendants offered $10,000.

Specials in Evidence

Between $150,000 and $300,000 for the difference between her current salary and the salary she would have expected to receive for the positions she sought

Damages

Dunson sought an unspecified amount for stress, depression, anxiety, and the onset of diabetes.

Other Information

Dunson filed motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and a new trial. The defendants filed a motion seeking attorney's fees.

Deliberation

4.25 hours

Poll

11-1

Length

seven days


#92101

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