COBALT obtained a successful outcome for UAB Haltex in employee dismissal proceedings

COBALT successfully acted for UAB Haltex in proceedings regarding dismissal of its mid-level executive. The employee was terminated due to infringement of the constitutional rights of the other employees by degrading treatment and causing them to suffer constant stress and tension. After being dismissed for a gross breach of job duties, the employee brought a lawsuit against the employer.

The court of first instance sided with the employer, holding that the employee was terminated lawfully and dismissed the lawsuit for lack of substantiation. The appellate court dismissed the appeal of the employee and upheld the ruling of the court of first instance.

“This case is one of the first of its kind in the history of Lithuanian courts, with the employer as the prevailing party. This recent victory shows that the provisions of the new Labour Code prohibiting humiliation and psychological violence against employees are already recognised in Lithuanian case-law. We believe that it will help to promote such values as mutual respect, co-operation and partnership between the employer and employees in employment relations in Lithuania. This case is significant for improving workplace culture in Lithuania,” says Dr Dalia Foigt-Norvaišienė, Head of Employment Law Practice Group at COBALT Lithuania.

UAB Haltex is a manufacturer of sportswear with a team of 340 employees. Its product range includes garments for rugby, football, ice hockey, basketball, cricket, athletics, tennis, volleyball, skiing, cycling, etc.

COBALT advised on the litigation strategy, drafted all procedural documentation and represented the client before court. The team was comprised of Legal Counsel Dr Dalia Foigt-Norvaišienė and Senior Associate Giedrius Abromavičius.