Another day, another Biglaw gender discrimination lawsuit. The latest case was filed by a former secretary at Troutman Sanders, Jessica Correa, against the firm and former transactional partner Gerald Francese (Francese is now a partner at Locke Lord).
The complaint describes escalating behavior that Correa says left her feeling “uncomfortable, vulnerable, and sexualized.” Francese allegedly began by using pet names for Correa and ogling her. According to the complaint, the increasingly aggressive inappropriate behavior included trying to kiss Correa, offering to be her “Sugar Daddy,” and inviting her to dinner and vacations. As reported by Big Law Business:
Francese, who had a reputation for being “very generous” with the staff, was soon calling her “cutie” and creating situations where he could stare at her breasts, Correa says. He also commented on and offered to adjust her clothing. Next came dinner invitations, which Francese really envisioned as dates, and physical touching, according to the complaint.
While at dinner one night, Francese mentioned Korean prostitutes and later tried to kiss her, the lawsuit says. He loaned her $2,600 when she had personal issues and then offered to be her “Sugar Daddy.” He ultimately kissed her twice against her will and retaliated when she worked up the courage to complain, Correa says.
Correa says when she complained about Francese’s behavior, he badmouthed her performance to HR, which led to her being “constructively discharged” from the firm.
Troutman Sanders and Francese have not yet commented on the lawsuit.
Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).