Li Lin Missouri Cases

Dr. Li Lin sued Washington University for retaliation under the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA), alleging her request for a reasonable accommodation for herniated discs was a protected activity. A jury found in Dr. Lin's favor, but the University appealed the denial of its motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. The Missouri Supreme Court reversed, holding that merely requesting an accommodation is not a protected activity under the plain language of MHRA section 213.070.1(2), and therefore, Dr. Lin failed to state a cognizable claim. The case was remanded.

Dr. Li Lin sued Washington University for retaliatory discharge under the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA) after her employment was terminated following requests for disability accommodations. A jury found in favor of Dr. Lin against Washington University, but not against her supervisor. The appellate court reversed the judgment, holding that the trial court erred in submitting an incomplete verdict director instruction that omitted an essential element of the retaliation claim. The court also clarified that requesting a disability accommodation is a protected activity under the MHRA and that the McGinnis Doctrine did not apply to exonerate the university.