Washington Civil Rights Council

WCRC Pro-Se Cases That are Getting Noticed

Patrick was among the early Pro Se Litigants in our program, known for his meticulous case preparation and patience. He engaged in brief exchanges with his former employer’s legal team before opting for mediation, where his preparedness and the support of WCRC’s legal team proved crucial. Concerned about the stress of negotiations, Patrick benefited from a visual guide he created with help from WCRC, outlining the strengths of his case. This preparation paid off, enabling Patrick to confidently uphold his arguments and secure a settlement he found satisfactory.

Kevin, dubbed the “Legal Eagle” within our Pro Se legal program, has immersed himself in learning and applying legal procedures. He not only successfully navigated and obtained settlement in one Wrongful Termination lawsuit but also mentors others within the group on formatting, court procedures, and legal strategies. Kevin’s dedication and newfound expertise are evident in his other Wrongful Termination case, currently under appeal. His tenacity and willingness to share knowledge have made him a standout in our program.

Kathleen’s legal battle against a state agency stands out as one of the most intense in our Pro Se Legal Program. Facing a well-funded and resource-rich opposition, Kathleen and WCRC advocates rose to the challenge, navigating through numerous legal maneuvers and challenges. Her case has been a learning experience for the entire program, highlighting the complexities and emotional toll of such battles. She has been able to gain momentum in her legal arguments and increasingly expose the weaknesses in the arguments of the opposition. Despite the many obstacles faced, Kathleen’s perseverance has been a source of inspiration, leading her to recently enlist the aid of a lawyer to further strengthen her fight for justice and closure.  Her former employer asserted a “Rational Basis” for their actions, but Kathleen argued that claiming the policy aimed to ensure workplace safety was a stretch. Even if the policy did enhance safety, she contended that this rationale did not justify the discriminatory manner in which it was implemented. Kathleen emphasized that the employer’s approach “made a mockery” of their obligation to consider accommodations for employees with religious exemptions.