News & Insights

Lightfoot Secures Summary Judgment for NCAA School, Head Track and Field Coach in Title VII Case

February 3, 2020

Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC has won summary judgment dismissing a Title VII discrimination case against the firm’s clients, an SEC institution and its head track and field coach. The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama, Eastern Division issued its decision Jan. 10. 

The plaintiff, a former assistant coach at the school, filed the lawsuit alleging discrimination based on race and national origin after his contract was not renewed. In dismissing the plaintiff’s claims, the court found the university’s reasons for not renewing the plaintiff’s contract were legitimate, and that there was no basis to claim that they were a pretext for discrimination.

“We’re pleased the court saw the strength in our evidence and argument to dismiss this case against our clients,” said Henry Gimenez, a Lightfoot partner and lead counsel on the case. “This was always a decision based on performance.”

In addition to Gimenez, Lightfoot associate Logan T. Matthews worked on the case.