David X. Sullivan, Thomas J. Finn, and Gregory A. Hall from the law firm McCarter & English have taken on the legal representation of Sunrun Installation Services in an ongoing civil rights lawsuit. The case was initiated on September 4 in the Connecticut District Court by attorney Robert M. Berke, representing former employee George Edward Steins. Steins was previously arrested and charged for employing a home improvement salesperson who was not registered.
The lawsuit claims that Sunrun should have notified the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection regarding the termination of Steins’ employment in 2017 and the subsequent loss of his home improvement contractor license. According to the complaint, had Sunrun provided this notification, Steins would not have faced charges, which were ultimately dismissed in May 2024.
The case is currently in the hands of U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer and is designated as 3:24-cv-01423, filed under the title Steins v. Sunrun, Inc. et al.
This situation highlights the complexities that can arise from employer-employee relationships and the importance of proper communication regarding employment status and licensing obligations. It serves as a reminder for businesses to maintain clear records and ensure timely notifications to regulatory bodies to avoid potential legal issues in the future.
Positive resolution of this case could result in clearer legal standards for similar situations, potentially preventing injustices for employees who find themselves in unfortunate circumstances due to their employer’s oversight.