A whistleblower retaliation lawsuit involving a Los Angeles-based media and entertainment firm culminated in a successful appeal for the plaintiff. The California appellate court upheld a whopping $7 million jury award for the employee, who the company dismissed for raising ;concerns about unsafe working conditions.
The company, initially focusing on internet programming, pivoted to hologram technology in 2014. The plaintiff, involved with the company from 2013 to 2017, was instrumental in the transition, mastering the technology and its installation.
In 2017, he was tasked with outfitting a church-turned-theater for a high-profile event. Upon starting the project, he found the premises lacking in necessary facilities, and alarmingly, code-compliant safety measures.
Upon the arrival of city inspectors who identified numerous code violations, the plaintiff voiced his concern about the safety of the audience under a ceiling-mounted, 700-pound projector. His worry fell on deaf ears, and he was subsequently fired amidst a flurry of profanities.
The ex-employee sought legal action, citing the dismissal as retaliation under sections 1102.5 and 232.5 of the California Labor Code. These sections prohibit employers from retaliating against employees who refuse to partake in unlawful activities or disclose poor working conditions.
A jury found the company liable and awarded the plaintiff $368,717 in economic damages, $700,000 in non-economic damages, and $6 million in punitive damages.
If you’re experiencing similar workplace situations, know that help is available. Reach out to Labor Law Advocates in California today for help in filing for financial compensation. We can walk you through the legal process and help you understand your rights under California employment law. Don’t wait to get the justice you deserve. Call today for a free consultation.
