In a gripping legal battle, a former employee has taken his case to the Superior Court of California, alleging severe workplace discrimination and wrongful termination. The complaint was filed by Yamazaky Soriano Michaca on February 18, 2026, against New Hope Dairy LLC in Sacramento County. This lawsuit shines a light on the alleged mistreatment faced by employees who require accommodations due to family medical issues.
The plaintiff, Yamazaky Soriano Michaca, claims that he was unjustly terminated from his position at New Hope Dairy LLC after requesting time off to care for his daughter diagnosed with a brain tumor. According to the complaint, filed by The Sentinel Firm APC attorneys Seung L. Yang and Brett M. Gunther, Michaca had been employed as a cow herder since December 2023. On July 26, 2025, he informed his employer about his need for leave under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) to attend medical appointments with his daughter. However, instead of receiving support or accommodations, Michaca alleges he was told not to return to work and subsequently received notice of termination from the company’s owner.
Michaca’s lawsuit accuses New Hope Dairy LLC of multiple violations under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), including discrimination based on associational disability and failure to engage in an interactive process for accommodation. The complaint also cites retaliation under both FEHA and CFRA for exercising his rights to family medical leave. “Defendants acted with oppression and/or malice,” states the lawsuit, emphasizing the emotional distress and financial losses suffered by Michaca due to what he describes as discriminatory practices.
The plaintiff is seeking various forms of relief from the court: general and compensatory damages for lost wages and benefits; punitive damages aimed at penalizing New Hope Dairy LLC for its alleged misconduct; reimbursement for attorney fees; and any applicable penalties under California law. Additionally, Michaca demands compensation for emotional distress caused by what he describes as “outrageous” conduct by his former employer.
Representing Michaca are attorneys Seung L. Yang and Brett M. Gunther from The Sentinel Firm APC based in Los Angeles. The case is being heard in Sacramento County’s Superior Court under Case No. 2ecOOs74g.
Source: 26CV003749_Yamazaky_Soriano_v_New_Hope_Complaint_County_of_Sacramento_California.pdf
