Bell Nunnally Partner Jay M. Wallace and Associate Brent D. Hockaday recently obtained a defense verdict on behalf of their clients, a nursing home and its parent company in a matter involving five former nursing home employees asserting claims of unlawful employment practices barred under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The jury, convened in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern Division of Texas, Lufkin Division, rejected as without merit each individual’s claims, which included discrimination and harassment based on race or sexual-orientation, retaliation by management for reporting harassment and unlawful termination. Back and front pay, punitive damages and attorneys’ fees were all sought, in addition to injunctive relief.

“We are heartened by the jury’s decisive decision in this critical matter. Our clients take these sorts of allegations very seriously,” said Wallace. “The jury saw that the organization is dedicated to ensuring a safe and respectful workplace where employee concerns are adequately addressed. This verdict is an affirmation of their organization’s culture and values.”