Vinson v. Superior Court

Vinson (plaintiff) applied for a position at the Peralta Community College District (defendant). Grant (defendant) interviewed her for this position. During the interview, which took place in a private cubicle, Grant made several sexually explicit comments regarding Vinson’s appearance and his sexual desires towards her. Grant also allegedly concluded the interview by assuring Vinson that she would obtain the position if she performed certain sexual favors for him. Vinson was later hired as a certification technician within the Community College District. Vinson alleges that when Grant discovered she was working within the district, he had her transferred to a position for which she was unqualified. Vinson was promptly terminated following the transfer. Vinson sued in California state court, alleging wrongful discharge, sexual harassment, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. During discovery, the District and Grant made a motion to compel Vinson to undergo a psychological examination in order to determine the extent of her injuries. Vinson opposed the motion and further requested that if the examination were ordered that Vinson’s counsel be permitted to attend and that the examination not address her sexual history or practices. The trial court granted Grant and the District’s motion without imposing any limitations. Vinson appealed to the court of appeals and was denied. Vinson appealed to the California Supreme Court.