A recent report by a national jury verdict research institute says that the median jury award for employment law claims in the United States rose sixty percent (60%) in 2008, from about $204,000 to $326,000.  The median employment claim settlement amount (for reported settlements) rose to the highest level in the past decade at $90,000.

The report notes that retaliation awards were the highest during the study period.  Although sex and race discrimination claims are the most common awards, claims of age and disability discrimination received the most compensation from juries.  This report confirms that employment law claims continue to pose considerable risk for employers.  Need further proof?  Keep reading…