Wells Fargo Must Face Former Manager’s Retaliation Claims
By CU Today Staff —
CHARLOTTE, N.C.—Wells Fargo must face trial in a disability discrimination and retaliation lawsuit brought by a former finance manager after a federal judge in North Carolina denied the bank’s motion for summary judgment, finding factual disputes that must be resolved by a jury. The ruling allows key claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act and related retaliation allegations to proceed, Law360 said.
According to Law360, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell concluded that a genuine dispute remains over whether Wells Fargo took an adverse employment action against the employee after she sought accommodations for a disability and complained about her treatment. The judge found sufficient evidence for a jury to determine whether the bank’s actions were motivated by discrimination or retaliation.
The plaintiff, who worked as a finance manager, alleges Wells Fargo failed to accommodate her disability and later retaliated against her after she engaged in protected activity. Wells Fargo argued the claims should be dismissed before trial, contending the employee could not establish the elements necessary to prove discrimination or retaliation. Judge Bell rejected those arguments, ruling that material factual disputes remain, Law360 said.
The decision does not determine whether Wells Fargo violated federal employment laws, but it clears the way for the case to proceed toward trial or potential settlement. Wells Fargo has denied wrongdoing and had sought summary judgment on all remaining claims, Law360 noted.
Originally reported by CU Today.