Salesman files age discrimination lawsuit after losing job

NEW ORLEANS - A salesman has filed a lawsuit against his former employers claiming he was terminated as a result of his age.

Joseph H. Powell filed suit against W. L. Doggett L.L.C., Doggett Machinery Services, Doggett Construction & Forestry Equipment on Aug. 27 in federal court in New Orleans.

Powell was employed as a salesman for the defendants beginning in July 2006. His employment was terminated in May 2013.

The defendants are accused of terminating long-term experienced, older employees and hiring newer, less experienced, younger employees.

The defendants are also accused of violating the Family and Medical Leave Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, discrimination in violation of the Louisiana Anti-Discrimination Law, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

The plaintiff is seeking an award of damages for back pay, front pay, lost benefits, compensatory damages, liquidated damages, attorney’s fees, court costs, and interest.

Powell is represented by Michael A. Allweiss and Marynell L. Piglia of Lowe, Stein, Hoffman, Allweiss & Hauver in New Orleans. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:13-cv-05572