Landry's restaurant worker sues for post-benefits termination following injury

A Jefferson County man brought a complaint against a Harris County restaurant business alleging employment law violation in 2014.

Joseph D. Hoffman filed against Landry’s Inc. a/k/a Saltgrass of Beaumont in Jefferson County District Court April 9, claiming retaliatory action for a worker’s compensation benefit claim filed in April 2014.

Hoffman began work for Landry’s Saltgrass restaurant on or about May 1, 2012 as a server. When he sustained a work-related injury on April 23, 2014, Hoffman followed protocol by reporting his injury, treating it onsite, and finishing his shift, the suit states.

According to the grievance, Hoffman filed for and received worker’s compensation benefits, returning to work uneventfully. The complaint alleges that Hoffman’s supervisor terminated him on or about Oct. 31, 2014, allegedly due to customer complaints.

The plaintiff maintains that he had a good work record. Contending that his supervisor’s reason was pretextual; and that he was fired in violation of employment law and in reprisal for filing a worker’s compensation request, Hoffman claims wrongful termination and retaliation.

Citing suffering, lost wages, emotional pain, loss of enjoyment of life and inconvenience, the plaintiff seeks: exemplary and compensatory damages; back pay, front pay and reinstatement; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses, and costs. Hoffman is represented by Melody Chappell of Wells, Peyton, Greenberg & Hunt in Beaumont.

Jefferson County District Court Case A-197020