“An employer may establish job requirements, and rely on them in arguing that a prima facie case is not established because the employee is not ‘qualified.’  However, only objective requirements may be used in making this argument.” Johnson v. Louisiana, 351 F.3d 616, 622 (5th Cir. Nov. 14, 2003) (citing Medina v. Ramsey Steel Co., Inc., 238 F.3d 674, 681 (5th Cir. Jan. 21, 2001)).  “That is, an employer cannot defeat summary judgment at the prima facie stage by claiming the plaintiff failed to meet entirely subjective hiring criteria. Medina, 238 F.3d at 681. …. The police chief requirements at issue have objective and subjective elements.  The vacancy stated, in relevant part, that applicants ‘should have ten years of pertinent experience, including supervisory experience as a division commander, assistant police chief or police chief.’ Doc. [40–6].  While the number of years required is objective, it appears that the City may have been able to make a quasi-subjective determination on whether an applicant’s experience is ‘pertinent.’…. Plaintiff is able to show, and the City does not challenge, that he satisfies the objective hiring criteria for the position.  Such is demonstrated by Plaintiff’s resume and deposition testimony summarizing his work experience and qualifications.”

Harstad v. City of Columbus, Miss., 2014 WL 4913966, at *3–4 (N.D. Miss. Sept. 30, 2014) (Brown, J.).

Photo of Gregory A. Placzek Gregory A. Placzek

We asked Gregory A. Placzek, an experienced Trial Attorney in the San Antonio office of Rob Wiley, P.C., to provide his candid answers to a range of questions.  After reading, you will be more more familiar with the direct one-on-one expertise that

We asked Gregory A. Placzek, an experienced Trial Attorney in the San Antonio office of Rob Wiley, P.C., to provide his candid answers to a range of questions.  After reading, you will be more more familiar with the direct one-on-one expertise that Mr. Placzek affords.

1. What do you like most about being an employment lawyer?

I get to meet people with different backgrounds, skills, and experiences.  I deal with a broad range of clients such as mechanics, doctors, truck drivers, CEOs, IT professionals, public servants, and even other attorneys, so it is always interesting to see what other people do for a living.

2. What is the most satisfying part of working for Rob Wiley, P.C.?

Getting justice for what would be considered the “little guy.”

3. What is the biggest mistake you see clients make?

Not contacting an attorney soon enough.  It is better to get ahead of any impending action instead of reacting to it after the fact.

4. What labor and employment issues do you think are currently trending?

Without a doubt, LGBT issues are the hottest topic that is trending.  Courts, the public, and employers are starting to recognize the need to protect this class.

5. If you could write a new law, what would it do?

Hold companies better accountable for provisions in employee handbooks.  If they expect employees to abide by the handbook, so should they.

6. Besides Rob Wiley, P.C., what is the most interesting job that you have had?

I worked at a rock quarry one summer in college.  I would come home covered in a fine dust after working ten hours in 100 degree heat.  I met some great people and learned the value hard work and proper hydration.

7. Who is your role model?

My father is an amazing trial attorney in Southwest Missouri.  As a kid, I was always astonished at his successful advocacy on behalf of those who were wronged.  Now that I am an attorney myself, I am even more impressed with his passion and grasp of the law.

8. What makes you laugh?

Being the father of three boys, I am always a sucker for a good knock-knock joke.

9. What is your favorite food?

Thai food.  Ask and I will let you know the best thai food in San Antonio.

10. What’s the best part of living in San Antonio?

Go Spurs Go!

Gregory A. Placzek is a Trial Attorney in the San Antonio office of Rob Wiley, P.C.  He graduated cum laude from The University of Tulsa with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 2006.  Mr. Placzek went on and received his law degree magna cum laude from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in 2009.