A Geneva resident and former Seneca County Court Clerk has filed a lawsuit against Judge Barry Porsch, as well as other Seventh Judicial District officials alleging she was terminated because she wanted to become a foster parent.
The suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Rochester, claims that Jessica Serrett’s termination was a case of employment discrimination.
According to the complaint, which FingerLakes1.com obtained over the weekend, Serrett enjoyed a good working relationship with Porsch until deciding to foster a child. The suit alleges that the working arrangement was so positive that she even was entrusted with hearing cases during his absence.
The complaint describes a sudden change in Porsch’s demeanor towards Serrett after she disclosed plans to foster an infant.
Despite making arrangements to balance her work and foster care responsiblities- Serrett said in the suit that Porsch no longer wanted her on the team.
The suit also disputes a claim made to the New York State Department of Labor by the Seventh Judicial District that Serrett was terminated due to lack of Covid vaccination, asserting that Serrett was fully vaccinated.
Josh is the publisher of FingerLakes1.com. Have a question? Send them to [email protected].