Alaska Employment Law

Mitchell v. Teck Cominco Alaska, Inc., S-12530, argued Jan. 14, 2008     

Mitchell asserts [his firing] by his employer was racially motivated. The trial court found that Mitchell committed sexual harassment, although Mitchell claims he only requested a mutual acquaintance for an introduction to the woman.   

Trial judge: Erlich

Counsel: Ken Legacki; Sean Halloran        

Alford v. State, Dept. of Administration, Div. of Retirement and Benefits, S-12644, argued Jan. 14, 2008

After the Division of Retirement corrected an error in the calculation of benefits of state employees who had retired, were re-employed by the State and then took a second retirement, a group of retirees claimed that the Division’s methodology of computing benefits was still incorrect. The Public Employee’s Retirement Board and the Superior Court disagreed with the retirees.

Trial judge: Michalski

Counsel: Donna Willard; Virginia Ragle

Beegan v. State, Dept. of Transportation & Public Facilities, S-12615, argued Dec. 19, 2007

Dennis Beegan adjudicated claims of discrimination and retaliation against DOTPF before the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights. When the Commission denied his claims, Beegan filed a claim for back pay damages in superior court. Does the Commission’s decision in this case preclude Beegan’s subsequent civil action? 

Trial judge: Gleason 

Counsel: Jeff Jarvi; Brenda Page

To listen to the arguments, or to order the videotape, go here.  The summaries are from Gavel-to-Gavel.