According to a report from WBAL-TV, an Army reservist in Baltimore has sued the city and the state attorney’s office, claiming he was not allowed to return to his job following his tour of duty.
The plaintiff had worked as a city prosecutor for several years beginning in 2009, after working as a law clerk the year before. In July 2009, he was called to active duty for a six-month deployment. At that time, he was allegedly told his job would be waiting for him when he returned. However, when his tour ended, he was denied the position.
After dealing with the city and attorney’s office for months, and receiving no answers, the former employee felt he had no choice but to file the lawsuit. He claims both defendants are guilty of violating the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, which specifies military members have the right to reclaim employment after a service-related absence.
“If [the plaintiff] is willing to put his life on the line for his country, you would hope when he returns to civilian life, his country would be appreciative, or at least the city of Baltimore,” the former prosecutor’s lawyer stated.
The case highlights the importance of all businesses adhering to state and federal laws and regulations. Failure to do so can damage a company’s reputation and lead to expensive profesional liability lawsuits.
