Legal Question in Disability Law in California

Re: Settlement proposal

You are intending to settle your claim while representing yourself -- against a company that will be represented by a lawyer. That is not a great idea. . . Look at lost wages, lost future wages, emotional distress. . . You also have to look at the strength of your case -- it's a good signal that the DFEH has accepted it. . . and what you would get if you would win at trial -- what other cases have brought in. . . Otherwise, makes sense to have an attorney. . . . Good luck.

Re: Settlement proposal

I am impressed that you have taken yourself through this difficult process. However, I am concerned that everyone is represented by counsel but yourself. Each person is an expert in their field, as you are in what you do, they have an expert helping them - who do you have helping you?

Without knowing the facts of your case, I could not specifically advise as to your matter. However, you want to look to your lost wages, benefits, expenses and emotional distress. Some cases permit for statutory damages as well as attorney fees and costs.

However, at the end of the day, I strongly suggest, you take a copy of your Charge of Discrimination/Complaint filed with the DFEH and attempt to find legal counsel to assist you in the process. The DFEH traditionally has a list of counsel in your area. You can also find counsel in your county's bar association.

I wish you the best of luck.

Sincerely,

Beth Mora