Discrimination Case against Biglaw Firm Settles for Over $3M

This gender discrimination case, filed in 2016, alleged that the former prominent law firm of Chadbourne & Parke LLP willfully discriminated against the firm’s female partners by paying them less than their similarly situated male counterparts. The plaintiffs, Kerrie Campbell, Jaroslawa Johnson, and Mary Yelenick, brought this case under the Equal Pay Act and gender discrimination claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Law.

The legal battle recently came to an end between Chadbourne’s successor firm, Norton Rose Fulbright, and the Plaintiffs with a settlement agreement ending the alleged claims of unequal pay and sex discrimination. Separate agreements have been established for all three women that are set to resolve all of their claims against the firm. Ms. Campbell will receive $1 million, Ms. Yelenick will get $750,000, and Ms. Johnson will receive $250,000. Chadbourne will also be paying more than $1 million in attorney fees. Although this settlement agreement is still pending the Court’s approval, the Plaintiffs’ attorney hopes that this potential hefty payout will deter other firms from compensating their female employees unfairly under the law.

If you feel you may be experiencing discrimination in your place of employment due to your gender it is often a good idea to consult an employment attorney regarding your rights. Fitapelli & Schaffer, LLP provides a wide range of expertise in labor laws and offers a free phone consultation. Call (212) 300-0375 to speak to one of our available representatives to discuss your potential claims now. You may also visit our website for more information.