Groundbreaking Verdict in School Board Case

With several years of litigation experience and expertise in discrimination, retaliation, and civil rights violations, I was able to successfully win a groundbreaking jury verdict for my client, that will send a message to public agencies and servants that political corruption and discrimination will not be tolerated. My client, a former custodian for the Elizabeth School District, sued the Elizabeth Board of Education, claiming he was fired in retaliation for filing a worker’s compensation claim and failing to contribute to the board members’ political campaigns. The former custodian underwent back surgery in 2011 for injuries sustained while working at the school. In March 2011, he was fired while still recovering from the surgery. The Elizabeth School Board members voted to terminate him without providing any reason. The Board illegally refused to provide him with a statutorily required “written statement of reasons” for his discharge, although he’s a union member. Most union contracts include provisions that require employers to have reasonable cause for termination. When my client began working as a custodian, he was told that giving donations and volunteering, “would be a good career move.” The former custodian initially made contributions and volunteered to work on campaigns, but when he stopped doing so, the board members shunned him. My client filed a lawsuit against the school board, claiming that his discharge was discrimination and violated his civil rights. The former custodian alleged that he was fired to punish him for previously filing a worker’s compensation claim. He also claimed that the board’s coercion to support political campaigns violated his civil rights to free expression protected under both the New Jersey and United States constitutions. After an eight-day trial, the Jury found in favor of my client and awarded him $25,000 for emotional distress. In addition to the reward, the school board is required to pay the attorneys fees and cost of suit. Many public agencies are riddled in a culture of political corruption, malfeasance, and reckless spending of taxpayer money. These organizations have a powerful and corruptive influence that takes advantage of individuals and clients like mine. Many people do not bring lawsuits, because the cost of suing government agencies and corporations is too risky and expensive. However, court rulings permit lawyers successful in anti-discrimination cases to apply for attorney fees. This opportunity gives individuals the means for a fighting chance when suing government agencies or large corporations. If you have been a victim of discrimination in the workplace, I, David Kaplan, will protect your civil rights and ensure the best outcome of your case. You may be able to receive reinstatement, recovery of lost wages and benefits and compensation rewards. Call today for a free consultation 973-426-0021.