U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan declared a mistrial in Gonzalo Guisbert v. Washington Convention Center and Sports Authority (“Events DC”) when it was revealed at the end of the fourth day of trial that Events DC had failed to provide critical documents in response to discovery. In explaining her decision, Judge Chutkan said, “I believe that even if we went on in this trial, that the plaintiff would be prejudiced… they did not have a chance to incorporate this evidence into their case , and… they would not have the change and they have not had the change to find out what other evidence may also have not been disclosed.
Judge Chutkan’s ruling was featured on ALM/Law.com and GEL President Gary Gilbert was quoted saying, “This decision is important—not just for this case—but because it establishes that failure to produce discovery can go far beyond a slap on the wrist… It should serve as a warning to defendants that they exercise diligence in providing discovery.” To read the full article, click here.
In addition to Gary Gilbert, GEL attorneys Tom Gagliardo and David Karman represent Plaintiff Gonzalo Guisbert in his claim that Defendant discriminated against him based on his race and age. If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination in the workplace, GEL may be able to assist.