Expert testimony can play a significant role in shaping the outcome of cases that go to trial. For example, in a case lacking witnesses or evidence that could directly support or undercut the plaintiff’s accusations of severe sexual misconduct, what stood out most was the expert testimony.

On August 8, 2017, a two-week jury trial ended with a New Jersey mayor being cleared of any wrongdoing under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD), while his accuser, who remains employed by the township he leads, must pay damages for defamation. Tamara Smith v. Township of Irvington and Anthony Vauss, in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County.

According to her initial complaint, the plaintiff was hired by the Township in 2004, and, in mid-2005, became a Public Works Inspector with the Township’s Department of Public Works. Leading up to the Township’s mayoral election in May 2014, the plaintiff allegedly reported to the eventual winner of that election, Anthony Vauss.

As Smith alleged in the complaint, her work environment became “toxic” in August 2013, when Vauss allegedly propositioned her for a discrete sexual relationship (Smith and Vauss both had spouses who also worked for the Township). In return, Vauss allegedly promised that, as Mayor, he would get Smith promoted and would otherwise attend to the financial needs of Smith and her husband. When Smith rebuffed his advances, Vauss allegedly raped her.

Smith sued Vauss as well as the Township under LAD. LAD prohibits employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of sex, including by condoning sexual harassment. Moreover, alleged victims of prohibited discrimination can sue not just their employers, but also individual supervisors who are accused of aiding and abetting the alleged discrimination.

Faced with the prospect of going to trial with just Vauss’ word against Smith’s, Vauss’ legal team ultimately won the battle by using expert witnesses. First, a psychological evaluation revealed that Smith was battling depression and experiencing delusions. Second, a linguistics expert, by studying Smith’s speech patterns, was able to connect her to an anonymous letter received by the local newspaper attacking Vauss for completely unrelated, allegedly false reasons.

In cases with few witnesses to the alleged wrongdoing, defense teams can benefit from considering the value of expert witnesses to establish a critical element in their defense. This case demonstrates how that tactic was employed successfully to undermine the motives of the plaintiff.

 

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Photo of Martin W. Aron Martin W. Aron

Martin W. Aron is a Principal and Litigation Manager of the Morristown, New Jersey, office of Jackson Lewis P.C. For over 30 years, he has represented employers in all facets of labor and employment matters.

Mr. Aron has represented employers in cases involving…

Martin W. Aron is a Principal and Litigation Manager of the Morristown, New Jersey, office of Jackson Lewis P.C. For over 30 years, he has represented employers in all facets of labor and employment matters.

Mr. Aron has represented employers in cases involving claims of discrimination on the basis of age, sex, sexual harassment, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation and disability. He is also experienced in handling claims that arise under various state and federal statutes involving diverse issues such as family medical leave, whistleblowing, wage and hour regulation, unlawful competition, violation of restrictive covenants and theft of trade secrets.

Prior to joining Jackson Lewis, Mr. Aron was Co-Chair of the Labor & Employment Group for an Am Law 100 law firm.

Mr. Aron regularly litigates in state and federal courts, administrative agencies and arbitration forums for both unionized and non-union employers. He is recognized by his peers as an experienced trial attorney, having achieved the designation of Certified Civil Trial Lawyer from the New Jersey Supreme Court. Mr. Aron is a frequent lecturer on labor and employment issues. He is also certified as a Senior Professional of Human Resources (SPHR).

Mr. Aron advises both Fortune 100 companies with national and international operations as well as colleges, universities and emerging companies. He advises employers in a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, insurance, pharmaceuticals, retail, manufacturing, as well as nonprofit institutions.

Photo of Colin A. Thakkar Colin A. Thakkar

Colin Thakkar is the Knowledge Management (“KM”) Attorney for Jackson Lewis P.C.’s Non-Competes and Protection Against Unfair Competition Practice Group, and is based in the Jacksonville, Florida, office.

In his role, Mr. Thakkar serves as a subject-matter expert on restrictive covenant agreements and…

Colin Thakkar is the Knowledge Management (“KM”) Attorney for Jackson Lewis P.C.’s Non-Competes and Protection Against Unfair Competition Practice Group, and is based in the Jacksonville, Florida, office.

In his role, Mr. Thakkar serves as a subject-matter expert on restrictive covenant agreements and unfair competition litigation; creates and manages legal and electronic resources and materials to provide innovative client services; serves as a resource for other practice group members; monitors and analyzes regulatory and case law developments; and contributes to the firm’s blogs and legal updates.

Since 2005, Mr. Thakkar has represented and counseled employers nationwide with regard to federal, state, and local employment laws. In addition to representing companies in non-compete, non-solicitation, and other unfair competition lawsuits, he has defended employers against claims alleging discrimination, unpaid wages, ERISA violations, and other employment-related matters. Mr. Thakkar also has significant experience representing and advising employers regarding traditional labor law issues, including labor arbitrations, unfair labor practice charges, and the interpretation of collective bargaining agreements.