Supreme Court Strengthens Rights For Victims Of Workplace Sexual Assault Claims
A couple of recent events have made it easier for Tennessee employees and workers all across America who have experienced sexual assault in the workplace. A recent Supreme Court ruling has made it possible for a jury trial even if the signed contract stipulated arbitration instead of a jury trial. One problem with arbitration is the removal of the arbitrator from the adversities of everyday life whereas a jury is made up of individuals from all segments of society. Another is that often the arbitrator is chosen by the defendant leaving significant question as to impartiality.
Senator Al Franken introduced a bill that was passed by the Senate restricting funds to contractors who demand arbitration instead of trial by jury for their employees in instances of sexual assault. Senator Russ Feingold introduced legislation in April that would invalidate many clauses of binding arbitration and send many disputes involving civil rights, employment and consumer rights back to the courts.
If you have an employment law issue contact the Higgins Firm at 800.705.2121 or at HHPFirm.com.
Author Bio
Jim Higgins, founder of the Higgins Firm, is a seasoned personal injury attorney with deep roots in Nashville, Tennessee. A 4th generation Nashvillian, Jim carries on the legal legacy of his father, a judge for over 30 years. After graduating from the University of Memphis School of Law, Jim’s career began on the other side of the courtroom, defending insurance companies and learning their tactics for minimizing settlements. However, he soon realized his true calling was fighting for the rights of the injured, and for the past several years, he has exclusively represented plaintiffs in personal injury cases.
Since then, his dedication and skill have earned him membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an organization limited to attorneys who have secured million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for their clients. Licensed to practice in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia, Jim focuses on personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation cases. His exceptional work has been recognized by his peers, earning him a spot on the Super Lawyers list from 2021 to 2024, a distinction awarded to only a select group of accomplished attorneys in each state.
