"Based upon the applicable law, I CONCLUDE that the uncontested facts as set forth by petitioner establish a prima facie case of retaliation pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:15-39.1 because they show that Hatley 1) made a claim for Workers' Compensation and 2) he was discharged in retaliation for making that claim. Morris v. Siemens, 928 F. Supp. 486, 493 (D.N.J. 1996), reargument denied, 938 F. Supp. 277 (1996). The employer did not come forward with any legitimate business reason for firing him so it may be inferred and I CONCLUDE, from the circumstances in this case that the two events were causally connected, Hatley's claim was the cause of his discharge.
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"Accordingly, it is ORDERED that respondent Perfection Contracting, Inc. pay petitioner Hatley back wages in the amount of $26,356.72 because it wrongfully discharged petitioner from his position in violation of N.J.S.A. 34:15-39.1.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that respondent Perfection Contracting, Inc. shall also pay legal fees to the law firm of Lawrie, Cozier and Vivenzio in the amount of $14,947.50 incurred by the petitioner as a result of respondent's wrongful termination and statutory violations.
Hatley v Perfection Contracting, Inc., 2012 WL 918966 (N.J. Adm.) Decided March 5, 2012.
