A Los Angeles jury has awarded a historic verdict of $103 million in an age discrimination case against Liberty Mutual, marking the largest award of its kind in the United States. The decision, delivered earlier this month, found that the major insurer had discriminated against, harassed, and retaliated against former employee Joy Slagel over her age.
The case, led by attorney Justin Shegerian from Shegerian & Associates, is significant not only for its record-breaking financial implications but also for the societal message it sends regarding age discrimination in the workplace. Shegerian became the youngest first-chair attorney to achieve a verdict of $20 million or more in an age discrimination case within the U.S., further emphasizing the case’s groundbreaking nature.
In the trial, the jury found Liberty Mutual liable after Slagel, who had dedicated 30 years to the company, reported what she perceived as a growing preference for younger employees. Testimony revealed that Slagel and her colleagues observed substantial staffing changes that adversely affected older workers. Despite a consistent record of strong performance reviews, she was terminated shortly after raising concerns about ageist hiring practices.
The legal team argued that Liberty Mutual’s investigation and subsequent termination of Slagel were fabricated to silence her complaints and remove older, higher-paid employees. The jury sided with Slagel on all counts, sending a strong message to corporations about the seriousness of age discrimination.
“This verdict is a resounding message to corporations nationwide,” Shegerian stated. “Age discrimination is illegal, it is harmful, and juries will hold employers accountable.” He highlighted that the outcome was not only meaningful due to its size but also because it vindicated Slagel after a prolonged legal battle.
The case traces back to its initial filing in 2017, which saw a dismissal of all claims and over $70,000 in sanctions imposed on Slagel by the trial court. Following an appeal, the Appellate Court reversed the judgment in 2023, allowing the case to proceed.
Slagel’s allegations included claims that her termination was a direct result of complaints she made regarding age discrimination practices that she noticed as early as 2012. Despite being recognized as a model employee, Slagel’s complaints led to a company investigation into her conduct with a client, which the defense argued was unfounded.
At trial, Shegerian and his team dismantled Liberty Mutual’s claims by presenting witness testimony and internal documents. They demonstrated that Slagel had been honest in her dealings with the Walt Disney Company, countering the insurer’s narrative of dishonesty.
Moreover, testimony from other long-serving employees supported Slagel’s assertions, revealing a pattern of younger employees replacing older ones. The legal team also presented human resources documents that outlined a strategy of hiring younger staff.
The jury’s verdict included $20 million in compensatory damages and $83 million in punitive damages, contributing to the unprecedented total of $103 million. Shegerian noted that this was only his fourth jury trial since passing the California Bar in early 2025, and he expressed gratitude to the jury for their recognition of age discrimination.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent clients like Joy, who stood up for herself and others,” he remarked. “It’s rewarding to represent someone who is genuinely deserving of this result. It’s definitely the high point of my career so far, and I’m just getting started.”
The outcome of this case serves as a crucial reminder for businesses about the legal and ethical responsibilities surrounding age discrimination. It highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace where employees of all ages can thrive without fear of retaliation or bias.
