HKM Wins at Trial. HKM served as co-counsel representing defendants Delta Inn, Inc. and Hung G. Kim in a multi-million claim regarding the ownership of Delta Inn. On December 19, 2011, after a four-week bench trial in King County Superior Court, the court issued a verdict in favor of defendants. Soon In Kim v. Delta Inn et. al., 10-2-19547-5 SEA (King County Superior Court).

Congratulations to Partners Donald W. Heyrich and Dan Kalish who were recognized by Washington Law and Politics once again. Donald W. Heyrich was named a SuperLawyer by the magazine, and Dan Kalish was named a Rising Star.

HKM Wins Jury Verdict For Former Employee. HKM represented plaintiff Wendy Dorn in two-week jury trial regarding overtime wages. On September 15, 2011, jury returned verdict in favor of Ms. Dorn and, on November 30, 2011, the court awarded attorneys’ fees. Dorn v. Kent Post No. 15 et. al., 10-2-10169-1 KNT (King County Superior Court).

HKM Obtains Class Certification in Overtime Claim. On September 13, 2011, the Federal District Court in Oregon certified a class of Sleep Country sales associates in an overtime claim against the company. HKM represents the Sleep Country class. Shanklin et.al. v. Sleep Country USA, Inc., 3:10-CV 00406-MO (D. Or.).

HKM Writes Employment Discrimination Section of the Washington State Practice Manual. As in previous year, HKM has written the Employment Discrimination section of the Washington State Practice Manual. The publication is expected to be published in early 2012.

HKM Expands with New Hire. On September 28, 2011, attorney Cindy Lin joined HKM as a full-time associate attorney. You can learn more about Ms. Lin here.

HKM Prevails in Non-Compete Case. HKM represented Robert Heffner, current CEO of Falck North America, in non-compete lawsuit filed by Rural Metro Corp., after Mr. Heffner left Rural/Metro. Rural/Metro dismissed the case on November 4, 2010 after Heffner prevailed at TRO hearing. Rural Metro Corp. v. Heffner, 2:10-CV-02292-GMS (D. Ariz.).

Washington Pregnancy Discrimination Attorney

Dealing with Pregnancy Discrimination

The laws surrounding pregnancy and maternity leave are often misunderstood and in some cases, completely disregarded. Similar to the laws laid out in the Family and Medical Leave Act, the laws governing and preventing pregnancy discrimination are there for the protection of the woman and her family. There have been times when during a pregnancy, women have felt the need to hide their condition for fear of discrimination or harassment. Needless to say, such a happy time in a woman's life should never be overshadowed by fear of facing repercussions, loss of her job position or termination.

Thankfully, pregnancy discrimination is no longer as common as it once was, but it is still an issue that must be understood by employers and employees alike. If you feel you have been discriminated against because of your pregnancy, consult with a Washington employment law attorney from our firm right away. With over 40 years experience, our skilled attorneys will be able to meticulously review your case, advise you of your rights and fight hard to ensure those rights are protected.

Aspects of Pregnancy Discrimination

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act makes it illegal for any employer to wrongfully terminate, harass or discriminate against an employee because of the birth of a child or a pregnancy. It is critical for an employee to seek legal representation if you feel you are being discriminated against based on your pregnancy.

Pregnancy discrimination can affect a variety of aspects including:

Hiring
Termination/Dismissal
Wages
Benefits
Pay Increases
Seniority
Promotions/Demotions
Transfers
Leaves of Absence

Please note that it is fully legal to fire a pregnant employee for being unproductive. Therefore employers need to ensure they are not being wrongfully accused of pregnancy discrimination and if so, seek legal representation to help protect themselves and their company.

If you believe you are being discriminated against due to your pregnancy, contact a Washington employment law attorney at HKM Employment Attorneys today to schedule a private consultation and full review of your case.