Trial News

Trina Bengtsson, 32, worked as the director of the Sunnyworld Preschool. When she became pregnant, she told the preschool’s owners that she planned to take time off after the baby was born. They told Bengtsson that she should apply for unemployment so that she could rest during her pregnancy. When Bengtsson refused, she was terminated several weeks later, purportedly for mishandling business receipts. Bengtsson had earned $52,000 annually but has not returned to work.

Bengtsson sued Sunnyworld Preschool and its owners, alleging pregnancy discrimination and retaliation in violation of the Washington Law Against Discrimination, Wash. Rev. Code §49.60. The plaintiff also alleged wrongful discharge in violation of public policy.

The jury awarded more than $466,400, including $400,000 in noneconomic damages. The court denied the defendants’ posttrial motions and awarded the plaintiff attorney fees and costs. The defense has appealed.

Citation: Bengtsson v. Kong, NO. 17-2-21987-8SEA (Wash. Super. Ct. King Cnty. Oct. 30, 2018).

Plaintiff counsel: Katherine Chamberlain and Joseph Shaeffer, both of Seattle.