Hickle v. American-Multi Cinema, Inc.

Hickle v. American Multi-Cinema Court Ruling Summary

What Happened

A worker filed a lawsuit against American Multi-Cinema claiming wrongful termination and retaliation. The company tried to stop the case by requiring it go to arbitration—a private dispute process instead of court—based on an agreement the employee had signed.

The Court's Decision

The court sided with the worker and rejected the company's request. The judge found that by waiting approximately four years and actively fighting the case through discovery, motions, and settlement conferences, the company had essentially given up its right to use arbitration. The court concluded the company's delay caused real harm to the worker, who had already invested significant time and resources in the lawsuit.

Why This Matters

This ruling protects workers from employers selectively using arbitration agreements. Companies cannot remain silent during litigation and then suddenly invoke arbitration when it becomes convenient. Once an employer actively participates in the court process, they may lose the ability to force a case into private arbitration, ensuring workers get their day in court as originally promised.