Posted on July 11, 2022
Vicky, a Court Services Specialist, is a 14-year employee with Kern County Superior Court. After a minor mistake, the Court imposed a heavy-handed discipline of terminating her employment. Vicky contacted her SEIU 521 Steward Timothy Brandon, and together with our Union, they pushed back against the Court’s unjust decision. It took some time, but Vicky’s persistence and willingness to stand up paid off. Contract Enforcement brought the matter before an arbitrator who agreed that the Court’s decision was too severe and not in line with progressive discipline standards found in our union contract. Vicky was awarded her job back along with back pay for her lost wages.
“I could not believe that the Court would treat me so harshly for something so minor, especially after giving them 14 years as a dedicated employee. Their disregard not only severely impacted me, but also my family. I am thankful that we have our Stewards along with our Union, SEIU 521, on our side to stand up against such injustice.”
Vicky Garrido, Court Services Specialist at Kern Superior Court
