Wal-Mart Gender Suit with Appeals Court

San Francisco, Wal-Mart Stores appealed a District Court ruling earlier this year that classified a gender discrimination suit against the retailer as a class action lawsuit. The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is expected to hear Wal-Mart’s arguments early next week. The company argues that if it is considered a class action suit, it would be unmanageable, illegal and unfair. The suit would be the largest class action suit ever, potentially affecting 1.5 million female employees.

If Wal-Mart wins the appeal, the case would be broken down into smaller suits, which would give the company greater ability to negotiate settlements. Local reporters believe the case will go to the U.S. Supreme Court.