Employment discrimination comes in many forms. An employer could fire you or refuse to hire you for a number of illegal reasons including your race, religion, gender or age. One type of discrimination that is rampant across the country, but, that is often overlooked, is
age discrimination. If affects a surprising number of individuals who often do not get the compensation they deserve. A recent age discrimination case was brought against one of America’s top news networks.
George Hyatt was a cameraman for NBC News for 30 years. In his latest position, he worked on the Daily Rundown hosted by Chuck Todd. He was fired in 2011 and claimed that it was due to age discrimination. Hyatt alleged that right before he was fired his manager stated to other workers that he wanted to hire younger employees.
Hyatt filed a claim with the Office of Human Rights in Washington, D.C. This agency found for NBC. After getting approval from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Hyatt filed a federal case in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. NBC opposed the suit and alleged that Hyatt was let go due to poor job performance alone. The company filed a motion to dismiss the suit pointing out that Hyatt’s employment contract barred him from bringing a discrimination action against them. The judge refused to dismiss the case and mandated that the parties submit to mediation.
This summer, the parties came to an agreement and settled the case. It is unclear what the terms were included in the settlement. Hyatt had stated previously that he either wanted monetary damages or his job back. As he is not currently employed by NBC, it is likely that he received financial compensation.
Employment discrimination can have an effect on your ability to provide for yourself and your family. If you believe you have been discriminated against it is essential that you contact an experienced employment law attorney. Contact Pankey & Horlock for a free case evaluation by calling (770)670-6250 today.