A judge has denied a motion to change venues in an employment lawsuit brought by a former Disneyland employee who alleged she was fired in 2023 after nearly two decades because of health issues and her need for time off.
On Wednesday, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Randolph M. Hammock ruled plaintiff Kristin Jacobson’s lawsuit will remain in Los Angeles County and not be transferred to an Orange County court as Disney requested. The judge heard arguments on July 15, allowed Disney to file an additional briefing and took the case under submission on July 22.
Hammock said he was not convinced by Disney attorneys’ arguments that it would be inconvenient for many Orange County-based witnesses to travel to Los Angeles.
“In the end, trial is similarly inconvenient for defendants’ employee witnesses, whether Los Angeles County or Orange County,” the judge wrote.
Jacobson is a former Disneyland merchandise hostess who alleges she was unjustly fired in 2023 after 18 years of service because she had lupus and sought appropriate accommodation, including medical leave. Jacobson’s other health conditions include rheumatoid arthritis as well as hyperthyroidism, which necessitated surgical removal of her thyroid earlier in her life.
Jacobson also opposed conduct she reasonably believed was unlawful, including conduct that was discriminatory and/or harassing, according to her suit brought in July 2023. Despite her disabilities, Jacobson remained willing and able to work, the suit further states.
Jacobson was fired in April 2023 after 18 years with Disney at the Anaheim theme park, allegedly due to her “protected classes and activities.” Disney maintains that Jacobson was let go because of unjustified excessive absenteeism.
Trial of Jacobson’s case is scheduled Aug. 23, 2027.