News

On March 31, 2025, IFMK Law Partner Julie Bruch won summary judgment in favor of the Jackson County Public Defender in a federal lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. The plaintiff was a former assistant public defender who alleged age discrimination, age-based harassment, and retaliation for engaging in a protected activity. The employee claimed that he was not promoted to the Head Public Defender position and was ultimately terminated due to his age. He also claimed that co-workers referred to him as “old man” and “Colonel Sanders.” Plaintiff further alleged that the Head Public Defender repeatedly asked him when he would retire. Following discovery, IFMK filed a motion for summary judgment as to all claims which was granted by the court and the case was dismissed.