Donna the Woman Railroader

Outcome: Jury awarded $600,000 in sexual harassment case.

Description: Donna worked for the railroad like her grandfather before her. Donna did a great job but was subjected to unwanted sexual harassment in the workplace. Shortly after Donna stood up and reported the sexual harassment, the company turn its back on Donna as they pushed her out the door. Donna's case was Jason Smith's first jury trial. The judge seemed skeptical that Donna could prevail, but submitted the case to a jury to decide. Through preparation of Donna and other evidence, and through cross examining the railroad's witnesses, Jason was able to present a compelling case to the jury that Donna was a great employee who was subjected to sexual harassment and runoff by the railroad for reporting it. In closing argument, Jason asked the jury to award $400,000 to Donna for damages. The jury ignored this request, instead awarding $600,000 in damages. After the hearing the evidence at jury trial, the judge awarded every penny in attorney fees that Donna requested. Donna's case was the first verdict in Tarrant County for a victim of sexual harassment. Before Donna's trial, nine other sexual harassment cases were tried in Tarrant County, all resulting in jury verdicts for the employer. Jason Smith was honored to stand up for Donna.