Case: EEOC v. Caterpillar

1:03-cv-05636 | U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Filed Date: Aug. 13, 2003

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

On February 2, 2002, a female employee ("KL") filed a charge of discrimination against her employer, Caterpillar Inc. ("Defendant"), with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC" or "Plaintiff"). At that time, KL was employed at the Defendant's facility in Aurora, Illinois. This action arose out of the EEOC's subsequent investigation into sexual harassment allegedly occurring at that facility. The EEOC brought sexual harassment claims on behalf of five current at that time Caterpilla…

On February 2, 2002, a female employee ("KL") filed a charge of discrimination against her employer, Caterpillar Inc. ("Defendant"), with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC" or "Plaintiff"). At that time, KL was employed at the Defendant's facility in Aurora, Illinois. This action arose out of the EEOC's subsequent investigation into sexual harassment allegedly occurring at that facility. The EEOC brought sexual harassment claims on behalf of five current at that time Caterpillar employees-VE, SI, LJ, WH, RT-and sexual harassment and retaliation claims on behalf of two former Caterpillar employees-KL, and DG.

On August 13, 2003, the Chicago District Office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC") filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division. The plaintiff sued Caterpillar, Inc. under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title I of the Civil Rights Act of 1991. The plaintiff sought permanent injunctions enjoining the defendant from engaging in any employment practice that discriminates on the basis of sex and from retaliating against any employee for participating in protected activity; to order the defendant to institute and carry out policies that provide equal employment opportunities for women; require the defendant to provide women back pay, pecuniary losses and punitive damages; and order the defendant to provide training regarding sexual harassment and retaliation in the workplace. The plaintiff claimed that the defendant discriminated against a class of female employees because of their sex by subjecting them to a pattern or practice of sexual harassment and by retaliating against them for asserting Title VII violations.

On September 22, 2004, Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer denied the defendant's motion for partial summary judgement and for dismissal of the plaintiff's pattern or practice claims. She permitted the plaintiff to proceed on the sexual harassment claims on behalf of the women who had worked with RG, Safety and Security Manager at Caterpillar's Aurora Illinois facility as there was a reasonable nexus between RG's charge and the pattern and practice allegations in the case. On reconsideration, Judge Pallmeyer withdrew the limitation to women who worked with RG and approved a plant-wide class. The defendant sought leave to take an interlocutory appeal of this ruling.

On February 22, 2005, Judge Pallmeyer certified a question for review by the Court of Appeals as follows: in determining whether the claims in an EEOC complaint are within the scope of the discrimination allegedly discovered during the EEOC's investigation, must the court accept the EEOC's administrative determination concerning the alleged discrimination discovered during its investigation, or instead, may the court itself review the scope of the investigation? On that same day, Judge Pallmeyer determined that the case would proceed as a class action.

On June 1, 2005, the Seventh Circuit decided that "if courts may not limit a suit by the EEOC to claims made in the administrative charge, they likewise have no business limiting the suit to claims that the court finds to be supported by the evidence in the Commission's investigation. The existence of probable cause to sue is generally and in this instance not judicially reviewable."

On February 9, 2006, the case was referred to the Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown for settlement.

On August 9, 2007, Judge Pallmeyer granted the defendant's motion for summary judgment as to the plaintiff's retaliation claim on behalf of DG, the plaintiff's sexual harassment claims on behalf of LJ and RT, and the plaintiff's claim for punitive damages on behalf of WH. In all other respects, the defendant's motion for summary judgment was denied.

A bench trial was held from March 13, 2008 until April 7, 2008.

On June 18, 2009, Judge Pallmeyer entered judgment in favor of the defendant on all counts and denied the plaintiff's request for injunctive and equitable relief. Based on the evidence as a whole, Judge Pallmeyer concluded that any unwelcome sexual conduct KL suffered was not severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile work environment during her employment with Caterpillar. 628 F.Supp.2d 844. This case is now closed.

Summary Authors

Justin Kanter (5/28/2008)

Joanna Kuzdra (3/30/2018)

Carol Chen (7/3/2020)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/5351458/parties/eeoc-v-caterpillar-inc/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff

Brennan, Noelle Christine (Illinois)

Dreilinger, Lauren G (Illinois)

Attorney for Defendant

Bromet, Rebecca Pratt (Illinois)

DeGroff, Christopher James (Illinois)

Duprey, Anne Elizabeth (Illinois)

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document

05-08006

Docket [PACER-USCA]

Caterpillar, Inc v. EEOC

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

May 27, 2005

May 27, 2005

Docket

1:03-cv-05636

Docket [PACER]

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc

Aug. 3, 2009

Aug. 3, 2009

Docket
1

1:03-cv-05636

Complaint

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc.

Aug. 13, 2003

Aug. 13, 2003

Complaint

EEOC Press Release

EEOC v. Caterpillar, Inc.

No Court

Aug. 13, 2003

Aug. 13, 2003

Press Release
41

1:03-cv-05636

Memorandum Opinion and Order

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc.

Sept. 22, 2004

Sept. 22, 2004

Order/Opinion

336 F.Supp.2d 336

83

1:03-cv-05636

05-08006

Petition for Permission to Appeal from the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division

EEOC v. Caterpillar, Inc.

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

June 1, 2005

June 1, 2005

Order/Opinion

409 F.3d 409

90

1:03-cv-05636

Protective Order

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc.

Nov. 2, 2005

Nov. 2, 2005

Order/Opinion
132

1:03-cv-05636

Memorandum Opinion and Order

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc

Aug. 9, 2007

Aug. 9, 2007

Order/Opinion

503 F.Supp.2d 503

182

1:03-cv-05636

Memorandum Opinion and Order

EEOC v. Caterpillar Inc

June 18, 2009

June 18, 2009

Order/Opinion

628 F.Supp.2d 628

Resources

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/5351458/eeoc-v-caterpillar-inc/

Last updated Jan. 25, 2024, 3:17 a.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT; jury demand - Civil cover sheet - Appearance(s) of Lauren G. Dreilinger, Noelle Christine Brennan, John C. Hendrickson as attorney(s) for plaintiff (No summons(es) issued.) (Documents: 1-1 through 1-3) (hp) (Entered: 08/14/2003)

Aug. 13, 2003

Aug. 13, 2003

PACER
2

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for defendant Caterpillar Inc by Michael A. Warner, Joseph S. Turner, Michael Andrew McGuire. (vmj) (Entered: 08/18/2003)

Aug. 15, 2003

Aug. 15, 2003

PACER
3

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for defendant Caterpillar Inc by Johna Gabrielle Gaffke (ntf) (Entered: 08/19/2003)

Aug. 18, 2003

Aug. 18, 2003

PACER
4

WAIVER of service of summons as to defendant sent on 8/14/03. (hp) (Entered: 08/26/2003)

Aug. 22, 2003

Aug. 22, 2003

PACER
5

ANSWER and affirmative defenses to plaintiff's complaint by defendant [1-1]; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 10/16/2003)

Oct. 14, 2003

Oct. 14, 2003

PACER
6

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for defendant by Sheldon Leigh Jeter (hp) (Entered: 10/16/2003)

Oct. 14, 2003

Oct. 14, 2003

PACER
7

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for plaintiff by Diane Ilene Smason (hp) (Entered: 10/21/2003)

Oct. 20, 2003

Oct. 20, 2003

PACER
8

WITHDRAWAL by plaintiff of appearance of Noelle C. Brennan ; Notice (hp) (Entered: 12/05/2003)

Dec. 3, 2003

Dec. 3, 2003

PACER
9

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for defendant by Jason M. Torres (hp) (Entered: 12/09/2003)

Dec. 8, 2003

Dec. 8, 2003

PACER
10

MOTION by defendant for protective order (Attachments); Notice (hp) (Entered: 12/22/2003)

Dec. 17, 2003

Dec. 17, 2003

PACER
11

MOTION by defendant for partial summary judgment ; Memorandum in support (Attachments); Local Rule 56.1 statement of material facts as to which there is no genuine issue (Attachments); Notice (hp) (Entered: 12/22/2003)

Dec. 17, 2003

Dec. 17, 2003

PACER
12

MINUTE ORDER of 12/18/03 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Filed defendant's motion for protective order. [10-1] Answer brief to motion due 01/14/04. Reply to answer brief due 01/28/04. Status hearing held and continued to 02/04/04 at 9:30 a.m. Plaintiff's motion for leave to withdraw appearance of Noelle C. Brennan is granted. [8-1] Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 12/22/2003)

Dec. 18, 2003

Dec. 18, 2003

PACER
13

MINUTE ORDER of 12/18/03 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Filed defendant's motion for partial summary judgment. [11-1] Answer brief to motion due 01/28/04. Reply to answer brief due 02/11/04. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 12/22/2003)

Dec. 18, 2003

Dec. 18, 2003

PACER
14

NOTICE by defendant's counsel M. Andrew McGuire of change of address (hp) Modified on 01/15/2004 (Entered: 01/15/2004)

Jan. 13, 2004

Jan. 13, 2004

PACER
15

RESPONSE by plaintiff to defendant's motion for protective order [10-1] (Attachment) (hp) (Entered: 01/15/2004)

Jan. 14, 2004

Jan. 14, 2004

PACER
16

REPLY BRIEF by defendant in support of its motion for protective order [10-1] (Attachment) (hp) (Entered: 01/29/2004)

Jan. 28, 2004

Jan. 28, 2004

PACER
17

MEMORANDUM by plaintiff in opposition to defendant's motion for partial summary judgment [11-1]; Notice (hp) (Entered: 01/29/2004)

Jan. 28, 2004

Jan. 28, 2004

PACER
18

RESPONSE by plaintiff to defendant's Local Rule 56.1 statement of material facts as to which there is no genuine issue [11-1] (hp) (Entered: 01/29/2004)

Jan. 28, 2004

Jan. 28, 2004

PACER
19

LOCAL RULE 56.1 Statement by plaintiff of additional facts requiring the denial of summary judgment (Attachments) (hp) (Entered: 01/29/2004)

Jan. 28, 2004

Jan. 28, 2004

PACER
20

DECLARATION of Kathleen Leaver (Attachment); Notice (hp) (Entered: 01/30/2004)

Jan. 29, 2004

Jan. 29, 2004

PACER
21

MINUTE ORDER of 2/4/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held. Motion for protective order [10-1] granted in part and denied in part. From year 2000 forward payroll records for single facility to be produced within 10 days. Other details requested need not be produced this time. Also within 10 days, defendant to produce other complaints of sexual harassment and retaliation form 2000 forward. Date for defendant's reply memorandum in support of summary judgment extended to 02/16/04. [11-1] Notices mailed by judge's staff (hp) (Entered: 02/09/2004)

Feb. 4, 2004

Feb. 4, 2004

PACER
22

MOTION by defendant for protective order and clarification regarding documents and information this Court ordered Catarpillar to produce (Attachment); Notice (ar) (Entered: 02/11/2004)

Feb. 6, 2004

Feb. 6, 2004

PACER
23

MINUTE ORDER of 2/10/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Defendant's motion clarification is denied [22-2]. Plaintiff's response to motion for protective order [22-1] to be filed by 02/20/04. Reply to be filed 02/27/04. Ruling set for 03/01/04 at 9:00 a.m. [22-1]. Mailed notice (ar) (Entered: 02/11/2004)

Feb. 10, 2004

Feb. 10, 2004

PACER
24

RESPONSE by defendant to plaintiff EEOC's Local Rule 56.1 statement of additional facts [19-1]; Notice (hp) (Entered: 02/17/2004)

Feb. 13, 2004

Feb. 13, 2004

PACER
25

REPLY MEMORANDUM by defendant in support of its motion for partial summary judgment [11-1] (hp) (Entered: 02/17/2004)

Feb. 13, 2004

Feb. 13, 2004

PACER
26

RESPONSE by plaintiff to defendant's motion for protective order [22-1] and clarification; Notice (hp) (Entered: 02/23/2004)

Feb. 20, 2004

Feb. 20, 2004

PACER
60

ATTORNEY Appearance for Plaintiff Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by Ann M. Henry (hp, ) (Entered: 02/01/2005)

Feb. 20, 2004

Feb. 20, 2004

PACER
27

MINUTE ORDER of 2/25/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : By agreement of counsel, ruling on defendant's motion for protective order [22-1] set re-set to 03/02/04 at 9:30 a.m. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 02/27/2004)

Feb. 25, 2004

Feb. 25, 2004

PACER
28

REPLY BRIEF by defendant in support of its motion for protective order [22-1]; Notice (cdy) (Entered: 03/01/2004)

Feb. 27, 2004

Feb. 27, 2004

PACER
29

MOTION by plaintiff for leave to file supplemental authority in opposition to defendant's motion for partial summary judgment (Attachment); Notice (hp) Modified on 03/03/2004 (Entered: 03/03/2004)

March 1, 2004

March 1, 2004

PACER
30

MINUTE ORDER of 3/2/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Defendant's motion for protective order granted in part and denied in part. [22-1] Any anticipated communication with potential class members to be submitted in chambers, with copy to opposing counsel. Opposing counsel will have seven days to submit objections, if any. Court would then promptly issue a minute order providing direction with respect to proposed communications. Notices mailed by judge's staff (hp) Modified on 03/03/2004 (Entered: 03/03/2004)

March 2, 2004

March 2, 2004

PACER
31

MINUTE ORDER of 3/2/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : EEOC's motion for leave to file supplemental authority in opposition to defendant's motion for partial summary judgment is granted. [29-1] Defendant has seven (7) days to file additional material, if any. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 03/03/2004)

March 2, 2004

March 2, 2004

PACER
32

RESPONSE by defendant to EEOC's motion for leave to file supplemental authority in opposition to defendant's motion for partial summary judgment [29-1]; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 03/10/2004)

March 9, 2004

March 9, 2004

PACER
33

OBJECTIONS by defendant to EEOC's draft letter and questionnaire to be sent to Caterpillar's employees (Attachment); Notice (hp) (Entered: 03/16/2004)

March 12, 2004

March 12, 2004

PACER
34

RESPONSE by plaintiff to defendant's objections to EEOC's draft letter and questionnaire [33-1]; Notice (hp) (Entered: 03/19/2004)

March 17, 2004

March 17, 2004

PACER
35

OBJECTIONS by plaintiff EEOC to defendant's draft letter to employees (Attachment); Notice. (hp) (Entered: 03/29/2004)

March 26, 2004

March 26, 2004

PACER
36

RESPONSE by defendant to EEOC's objections to defendant's proposed letter to employees [35-1] (Attachments); Notice. (hp) (Entered: 04/05/2004)

April 2, 2004

April 2, 2004

PACER
37

JOINT MOTION by plaintiff to extend discovery ; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 05/20/2004)

May 17, 2004

May 17, 2004

PACER
38

MINUTE ORDER of 5/19/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Filed joint motion to extend discovery. Motion is granted. [37-1] Fact discovery extended to 07/12/04. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 05/20/2004)

May 19, 2004

May 19, 2004

PACER
39

MOTION by the parties to extend discovery ; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 07/01/2004)

June 28, 2004

June 28, 2004

PACER
40

MINUTE ORDER of 6/30/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Joint motion to extend discovery is granted. [39-1] Fact discovery is extended to 45 days after ruling on summary judgment motion. [11-1] Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 07/01/2004)

June 30, 2004

June 30, 2004

PACER
41

MINUTE ORDER of 9/22/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Entered Memorandum Opinion and Order. Status hearing set for 10/6/04 at 9:30 a.m. Caterpillar's motion for partial summary judgment is denied [11-1]. The EEOC will be permitted to proceed on its sexual harassment claims on behalf of the women wno worked with Robert Garcia at Caterpillar's Aurora Illinois facility. Mailed notice (gcy) (Entered: 09/23/2004)

Sept. 22, 2004

Sept. 22, 2004

RECAP
42

ATTORNEY APPEARANCE for plaintiff EEOC by Laurie S. Elkin (hp) (Entered: 10/06/2004)

Oct. 6, 2004

Oct. 6, 2004

PACER
43

MOTION by plaintiff EEOC for reconsideration of the Court's order denying defendant's motion for summary judgment ; Memorandum in support; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 10/06/2004)

Oct. 6, 2004

Oct. 6, 2004

PACER
44

MINUTE ORDER of 10/6/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held. Defendant's response to plaintiff's motion for reconsideration to be filed by or on 10/20/04; reply 10/27/04; ruling set for 11/05/04 at 9:00 a.m. [43-1] Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 10/06/2004)

Oct. 6, 2004

Oct. 6, 2004

PACER
45

OPPOSITION by defendant to EEOC's motion for reconsideration [43-1]; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 10/26/2004)

Oct. 20, 2004

Oct. 20, 2004

PACER
46

REPLY by EEOC memorandum in support of its motion for reconsideration [43-1]; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 10/29/2004)

Oct. 27, 2004

Oct. 27, 2004

PACER
48

MOTION by defendant to compel (Attachments); Notice (cdy) (Entered: 11/10/2004)

Nov. 4, 2004

Nov. 4, 2004

PACER
47

MINUTE ORDER of 11/5/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Ruling on plantiff's motion for reconsideration reset to 11/9/04 at 9:00 a.m. Telephoned notice (rbf) (Entered: 11/09/2004)

Nov. 5, 2004

Nov. 5, 2004

PACER
49

MINUTE ORDER of 11/9/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer: Plaintiff's motion for reconsideration [43-1], is granted as outlined on the reverse side of this order. (See reverse of minute order.) Notices mailed by judge's staff (cdy) (Entered: 11/10/2004)

Nov. 9, 2004

Nov. 9, 2004

PACER
50

MINUTE ORDER of 11/9/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer: Answer brief to motion to compel [48-1] due 11/30/04. Reply to answer brief due 12/07/04. Ruling on defendant's motion to compel [48-1] set for 12/10/04 at 9:30 a.m. Mailed notice (cdy) (Entered: 11/10/2004)

Nov. 9, 2004

Nov. 9, 2004

PACER
51

MOTION by defendant for certification of issue for appeal and stay of class-based discovery ; Memorandum in support; Notice. (hp) Modified on 11/23/2004 (Entered: 11/23/2004)

Nov. 15, 2004

Nov. 15, 2004

PACER
52

MINUTE ORDER of 11/18/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Filed defendants' motion for certification of issue for appeal [51-1] and stay of class-based discovery. [51-2] Answer brief to motion due 12/09/04. Reply to answer brief due 12/16/04. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 11/23/2004)

Nov. 18, 2004

Nov. 18, 2004

PACER
53

RESPONSE by plaintiff EEOC in opposition to defendant's motion to compel [48-1]; Notice. (jmp) (Entered: 12/03/2004)

Nov. 30, 2004

Nov. 30, 2004

PACER
54

REPLY by defendant in support of its motion to compel [48-1] (Attachment). (hp) (Entered: 12/08/2004)

Dec. 7, 2004

Dec. 7, 2004

PACER
55

RESPONSE by plaintiff EEOC to defendant Caterpillar's motion for certification of issue for appeal [51-1] and stay of class-based discovery [51-2] (Attachment); Notice. (hp) (Entered: 12/13/2004)

Dec. 9, 2004

Dec. 9, 2004

PACER
56

MINUTE ORDER of 12/10/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing set for 01/18/05 at 9:00 a.m. Defendant's motion to compel is granted [48-1] in part and entered and continued in part. Documents to be submitted to Judge Pallmeyer in chambers for in camera inspection. Mailed notice (hp) (Entered: 12/14/2004)

Dec. 10, 2004

Dec. 10, 2004

PACER
57

REPLY BRIEF by defendant in support of its motion for certification of issue for appeal [51-1], and stay of class-based discovery [51-2]; Notice. (hp) (Entered: 12/20/2004)

Dec. 16, 2004

Dec. 16, 2004

PACER
58

MINUTE ORDER of 12/17/04 by Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : On 12/10/04, the court entered and continued defendant's motion to compel [48-1]; having now reviewed the requested materials in camera, the court denies the motion without prejudice. (See reverse of minute order.) Notices mailed by judge's staff (hp) (Entered: 12/21/2004)

Dec. 17, 2004

Dec. 17, 2004

PACER
59

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : At the court's request, status set for 01/18/05 is stricken and reset to 02/01/05 at 9:00 a.m. (hp, ) (Entered: 01/19/2005)

Jan. 14, 2005

Jan. 14, 2005

PACER
61

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status set for 02/01/2005 stricken and reset to 02/08/2005 at 9:00 a.m. Docketing to mail notices. (hp, ) (Entered: 02/03/2005)

Feb. 1, 2005

Feb. 1, 2005

PACER
62

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held. Motion for certification of issue for appeal and stay of class-based discovery 51 continued to 2/15/2005 at 09:00 AM. No notices required, advised in open court. (hp, ) (Entered: 02/10/2005)

Feb. 8, 2005

Feb. 8, 2005

PACER
63

MOTION by Plaintiff Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to quash subpoena and for protective order; Exhibits. (rbf, ) Modified on 2/14/2006 (ym, ). (Entered: 02/16/2005)

Feb. 15, 2005

Feb. 15, 2005

PACER
64

NOTICE of Motion by Diane Ilene Smason for presentment of motion to quash and for protective order 63 before Honorable Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 2/17/2005 at 09:00 AM. (rbf, ) (Entered: 02/16/2005)

Feb. 15, 2005

Feb. 15, 2005

PACER
65

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held. Motion for certification of issue for appeal and stay of class-based discovery 51 continued to 02/18/05 at 9:00 a.m. Plaintiff's counsel directed to propose a question for interlocutory review that, in counsel's view, accurately represets the dispute between the parties. No notice required, advised in open court. (hp, ) (Entered: 02/17/2005)

Feb. 15, 2005

Feb. 15, 2005

PACER
66

OPPOSITION by defendant Caterpillar Inc., in to EEOC'S motion to quash subpoena and protective order 63 ; Notice, Exhibit A. (hp, ) Modified on 3/10/2006 (ym, ). (Entered: 02/23/2005)

Feb. 17, 2005

Feb. 17, 2005

PACER
68

LETTER from defendant's counsel S. Leigh Jeter dated 02/17/05. (hp, ) (Entered: 02/25/2005)

Feb. 17, 2005

Feb. 17, 2005

PACER
67

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 2/18/2005. EEOC having provided the relevant information, the motion to quash subpoena 63 is granted; and motion for protective order [63-2] is denied. Mailed notice (hp, ) (Entered: 02/23/2005)

Feb. 18, 2005

Feb. 18, 2005

PACER
69

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : The order. The court certifies the following question for review by the court of appeals: In determining whether the claims in an EEOC complaint are within the scope of the discrimination allegedly discovering during the EEOC's investigation, must the court accept the EEOC's administrative determination concerning the alleged discrimination discovered during its investigation, or instead, may the court itself review wthe scope of the investigation? Judicial staff mailed notice (air, ) (Entered: 02/25/2005)

Feb. 22, 2005

Feb. 22, 2005

PACER
70

ORDER. Signed by Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 2/22/2005. No notice (air, ) (Entered: 02/25/2005)

Feb. 22, 2005

Feb. 22, 2005

PACER
71

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Although the scope of the case is as yet uncertain, the court has determined that the case will proceed as a class action. The court therefore sustains certain objections to the parties' proposed letters to class members, and overrules other objections. Status hearing set for 3/22/2005 at 09:00 AM. Enter Order. Notices mailed by judge's staff (hp, ) (Entered: 03/01/2005)

Feb. 22, 2005

Feb. 22, 2005

PACER
72

ORDER 71 Signed by Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 2/22/2005: (hp, ) (Entered: 03/01/2005)

Feb. 22, 2005

Feb. 22, 2005

PACER
73

MOTION by Defendant Caterpillar Inc for protective order (las, ) (Entered: 03/02/2005)

March 1, 2005

March 1, 2005

PACER
74

NOTICE of Motion by Sheldon Leigh Jeter for presentment of defendant's motion for protective order 73 before Honorable Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 3/3/2005 at 09:00 AM. (las, ) (Entered: 03/02/2005)

March 1, 2005

March 1, 2005

PACER
75

RESPONSE by EEOC to Defendant's Motion for protective order 73 (hp, ) (Entered: 03/04/2005)

March 2, 2005

March 2, 2005

PACER
76

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Defendant's Motion for protective order 73 is withdrawn without prejudice pending negotiations. Mailed notice (hp, ) (Entered: 03/07/2005)

March 3, 2005

March 3, 2005

PACER
77

MOTION by Defendant Caterpillar Inc for substitution of counsel (gma, ) (Entered: 03/09/2005)

March 9, 2005

March 9, 2005

PACER
78

NOTICE of Motion by Jason M Torres for presentment of MOTION by Defendant Caterpillar Inc for substitution of counsel 77 before Honorable Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 3/22/2005 at 09:00 AM. (gma, ) (Entered: 03/09/2005)

March 9, 2005

March 9, 2005

PACER
79

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer: Status hearing held on 3/22/2005. Defendant's motion for substitution of counsel 77 is granted. M. Andrew McGuire is to substitute the appearance of Johna G. Anderson. Status hearing set for 6/2/2005 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (lcw) (Entered: 03/23/2005)

March 22, 2005

March 22, 2005

PACER
80

TRANSCRIPT of proceedings for the following date: 02/15/05; Before the Honorable Rebecca R. Pallmeyer (hp, ) (Entered: 04/26/2005)

April 21, 2005

April 21, 2005

PACER
81

ATTORNEY Appearance for Defendant Caterpillar Inc by Anne Elizabeth Duprey (hp, ) (Entered: 05/18/2005)

May 13, 2005

May 13, 2005

PACER
83

OPINION from the USCA for the Seventh Circuit; Submitted 04/20/05; Decided 05/27/05 in USCA case no. 05-8006. (hp, ) (Entered: 06/09/2005)

June 1, 2005

June 1, 2005

PACER
82

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 6/2/2005. Status hearing set for 8/16/2005 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 06/02/2005)

June 2, 2005

June 2, 2005

PACER
84

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 8/16/2005. Plaintiff expects to identify the bulk of class members within 30 days. Discovery ordered closed by 2/10/2006. Status hearing set for 10/6/2005 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 08/16/2005)

Aug. 16, 2005

Aug. 16, 2005

PACER
85

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 10/6/2005. Status hearing set for 12/7/2005 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 10/06/2005)

Oct. 6, 2005

Oct. 6, 2005

PACER
86

MOTION by Defendant Caterpillar Inc for protective order (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Torres, Jason) (Entered: 10/28/2005)

2 Text of Proposed Order

View on PACER

Oct. 28, 2005

Oct. 28, 2005

PACER
87

NOTICE by Caterpillar Inc of Filing of Motion for Protective Order (Torres, Jason) (Entered: 10/28/2005)

Oct. 28, 2005

Oct. 28, 2005

PACER
88

RESPONSE by plaintiff to Defendant's Motion for Protective Order (Henry, Ann) Modified on 11/1/2005 (rbf, ). (Entered: 10/31/2005)

Oct. 31, 2005

Oct. 31, 2005

PACER
89

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Motion by defendant Caterpillar Inc. for protective order 86 is granted. Enter Protective Order. (cem, ) (Entered: 11/04/2005)

Nov. 2, 2005

Nov. 2, 2005

PACER
90

PROTECTIVE Order Signed by Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on 11/2/2005.(cem, ) (Entered: 11/04/2005)

Nov. 2, 2005

Nov. 2, 2005

PACER
91

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 12/7/2005. Status hearing set for 2/9/2006 at 08:45 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 12/07/2005)

Dec. 7, 2005

Dec. 7, 2005

PACER
92

ATTORNEY Appearance for Defendant Caterpillar Inc by Christopher James DeGroff (DeGroff, Christopher) (Entered: 01/13/2006)

Jan. 13, 2006

Jan. 13, 2006

PACER
93

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 2/9/2006. Discovery close date extended to 3/15/2006. Status hearing set for 3/16/2006 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 02/09/2006)

Feb. 9, 2006

Feb. 9, 2006

PACER
94

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ORDER:Case referred to Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat BrownSigned by The Executive Committee on 2/9/2006. (vmj, ) (Entered: 02/13/2006)

Feb. 9, 2006

Feb. 9, 2006

PACER
95

MINUTE entry before Judge Geraldine Soat Brown: This matter having been referred to Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown for a settlement conference, an initial status hearing is hereby set before Magistrate Judge Brown on 2/24/06 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 1812 for the purpose of setting a date for the settlement conference. Counsel for parties shall review Judge Brown's Standing Order for Settlement Conference before appearing for the initial status hearing. See www.ilnd.uscourts.gov//JUDGEBROWN. Mailed (vmj, ) (Entered: 02/22/2006)

Feb. 17, 2006

Feb. 17, 2006

PACER
96

MINUTE entry before Judge Geraldine Soat Brown : Status hearing held and continued to 3/1/2006 at 08:45 AM. Mailed notice (ntf, ) (Entered: 02/24/2006)

Feb. 24, 2006

Feb. 24, 2006

PACER
97

MINUTE entry before Judge Geraldine Soat Brown : Status hearing held and continued to 3/23/2006 at 10:30 AM. On that day, primary counsel for both sides shall meet and confer in Judge Brown's jury room to discuss whether the issues in dispute can be narrowed. Mailed notice (rbf, ) (Entered: 03/02/2006)

March 1, 2006

March 1, 2006

PACER
98

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 3/16/2006. Discovery close date extended to 4/18/2006. Status hearing set for 4/18/2006 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (etv, ) (Entered: 03/16/2006)

March 16, 2006

March 16, 2006

PACER
99

MINUTE entry before Judge Geraldine Soat Brown: Status hearing held. Off the record settlement conference held with counsel. The parties met to consider narrowing the issues. Counsel put on the record certain understandings that have been reached regarding narrowing the issues remaining in the case. Those understandings will be reflected on the record no later than 4/18/06. All matters relating to the referral of this action having been concluded, the referral is closed and the case is returned to the assigned judge. Mailed (vmj, ) (Entered: 03/24/2006)

March 23, 2006

March 23, 2006

PACER
100

MINUTE entry before Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer : Status hearing held on 04/18/2006. Plaintiff EEOC has leave to file within 14 days. Amended complaint adding a 13th Plaintiff. Defendant has leave to file dispositive motions. Parties invited to stipulate to filing oversized briefs. Status hearing set for 06/22/2006 at 09:00 AM. Mailed notice (ar, ) (Entered: 04/19/2006)

April 18, 2006

April 18, 2006

PACER

Case Details

State / Territory: Illinois

Case Type(s):

Equal Employment

Special Collection(s):

EEOC Study — in sample

Multi-LexSum (in sample)

Key Dates

Filing Date: Aug. 13, 2003

Case Ongoing: No reason to think so

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Plaintiff Type(s):

EEOC Plaintiff

Attorney Organizations:

EEOC

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: Yes

Class Action Outcome: Granted

Defendants

Caterpillar, Inc. (Aurora, IL), Private Entity/Person

Defendant Type(s):

Jurisdiction-wide

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Title VII (including PDA), 42 U.S.C. § 2000e

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Any published opinion

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Defendant

Nature of Relief:

None

Source of Relief:

None

Issues

General:

Pattern or Practice

Retaliation

Discrimination-area:

Disparate Treatment

Discharge / Constructive Discharge / Layoff

Harassment / Hostile Work Environment

Training

Discrimination-basis:

Sex discrimination

Affected Sex or Gender:

Female

EEOC-centric:

Direct Suit on Merits