A former employee has filed a lawsuit against a major financial institution, alleging discrimination and defamation. Brianda Cazares initiated the complaint on November 26, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accusing JP Morgan Chase & Co. of violating her rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and engaging in defamatory practices.
Brianda Cazares claims that during her tenure as an associate banker from June 24 to September 23, 2024, she was subjected to discriminatory treatment by her manager, Lindsey Lewis. Cazares alleges that Lewis perceived her as having a disability and spread false rumors about her capabilities. According to the complaint, Lewis made derogatory comments suggesting that Cazares "must have a disability" and is "slow," undermining her reputation among colleagues. These statements were allegedly made publicly within the workplace environment authorized by JP Morgan Chase & Co., thereby invoking the doctrine of respondeat superior under Illinois common law.
Cazares argues that despite successfully completing her probationary period and meeting performance expectations, she was unfairly terminated based on perceived disabilities and for opposing harassment. She recounts an incident where Lewis approached her on a day off to inform her of termination, citing unsuitability for the company—a decision Cazares believes was influenced by discriminatory perceptions rather than job performance.
The lawsuit outlines multiple counts against JP Morgan Chase & Co., including disability-based discrimination, harassment, retaliation under the ADA, and defamation through its agent Lindsey Lewis. The plaintiff asserts that these actions resulted in loss of employment opportunities, income, mental anguish, distress, humiliation, and loss of enjoyment of life.
In seeking redress from the court, Cazares requests back pay with interest, front pay, compensatory and punitive damages, reasonable attorney fees and costs, pre-judgment interest if applicable, and any other relief deemed just by the court. The case underscores significant allegations of workplace discrimination and misconduct within one of America's leading financial institutions.
Representing Brianda Cazares is attorney Peyton M. Paschke from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while no information about defense attorneys or judges involved is provided in this document. The case is identified as Case No: 1:24-cv-12221.