University of Miami Accused of Discrimination Because It Screens Job Applicants Based on Their Credit Reports

November 24, 2010

We filed a class action lawsuit in Federal Court in South Florida this week on behalf of our client alleging that the University of Miami discriminated against her because it denied her employment based on her credit report. The lawsuit was brought on behalf of our client and also on behalf of all other persons similarly situated that were denied employment by the University of Miami because of their credit reports. Attached is a copy of the Class Action Complaint - Appolon v. University of Miami.pdf.

The Complaint alleges that Loudy Appolon interviewed for a position with the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine in June 2009, and she was offered the position. Indeed, she had been working in the same field for a significant period of time and was qualified for the position. However, one day before she was to start her new job, the University informed her that she would not be hired because of her credit history.

We allege that such conduct is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 because the rejection of qualified individuals due to their credit history is not an accurate reflection of how the employee will perform and it furthers the racial discrimination that is present in the credit reporting system.

If you have questions regarding discrimination in employment, contact the Law Offices of Santiago J. Padilla, P.A. as soon as possible. Based in Miami, Florida, we represent employers and employees throughout South Florida in employment cases. To set up an initial consultation, you can contact us through the Internet or call us at (305) 358-1949.