Greg Robillard, a seasoned programmer at Opal Labs, initially saw the tech industry as a field full of promise and innovation. However, he soon discovered that it was anything but inclusive. Robillard encountered age discrimination and harassment—experiences that, unfortunately, are still too common today. He was often mocked as “old Greg” and dismissed as “some old guy in his 40s,” becoming the target of age-based jokes. The toxic environment escalated beyond mere words when he was let go for missing a meeting due to personal reasons, while younger colleagues faced no consequences for similar actions.
In a courageous move, Robillard filed a lawsuit against Opal Labs for age discrimination, among other claims. However, his quest for justice took an unexpected turn. Opal Labs retaliated by countersuing him, accusing him of violating trade secret laws by posting proprietary code on his GitHub account. This accusation was not about enforcing discipline or protecting intellectual property—it was a tactic intended to paint Robillard as a villain and distract from his age discrimination claim.
What followed was a grueling four-year legal battle, during which Robillard had to defend not only his claim but also his character. This situation highlights a troubling trend where companies misuse trade secret laws as a weapon against those accusing them of mistreatment.
$1,643,000.00 Mr. Greg Helmer of Helmer Friedman LLP obtained an award on behalf of an employee who had been discriminated against and harassed because of his age.
It is crucial to recognize the legal protections available for workers facing age discrimination. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) serves as a strong defense against discrimination, specifically protecting individuals aged 40 and over. Additionally, there are laws designed to shield employees from retaliation when they report age discrimination.
This narrative emphasizes the importance of seeking legal assistance for anyone facing similar circumstances. If you have experienced age discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in the workplace, consulting with an experienced employment law attorney is vital. Remember, you have the right to a fair and age-inclusive work environment. It is time to stand up against discrimination and retaliation. By refusing to be silenced, we compel employers to reconsider their actions regarding age. Age is not a liability; rather, it reflects our valuable experiences, wisdom, and resilience.