Bass, Berry & Sims served as local counsel for a leading global manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances in a multiple plaintiff case alleging racial harassment and in connected cases for associational harassment. On the racial harassment claims, the case started as a class action, and we assisted in defeating the certification attempt. The individual actions proceeded, and the company was awarded summary judgment by the District Court, dismissing all claims. On appeal, the Sixth Circuit reversed on some claims but the procedural posture allowed for a favorable settlement. One connected associational claim which was not dismissed was tried by jury, with active involvement of Bass, Berry & Sims as local counsel. Jury verdict was rendered for defendant employer.
Defense of Class Action Suit Alleging Racial Harassment for Home Appliance Company
Defense of Class Action Suit Alleging Racial Harassment for Home Appliance Company
Bass, Berry & Sims served as local counsel for a leading global manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances in a multiple plaintiff case alleging racial harassment and in connected cases for associational harassment. On the racial harassment claims, the case started as a class action, and we assisted in defeating the certification attempt. The individual actions proceeded, and the company was awarded summary judgment by the District Court, dismissing all claims. On appeal, the Sixth Circuit reversed on some claims but the procedural posture allowed for a favorable settlement. One connected associational claim which was not dismissed was tried by jury, with active involvement of Bass, Berry & Sims as local counsel. Jury verdict was rendered for defendant employer.