Byron Perkins, known as “Bp” by most of his friends has been in the active practice of law for over twenty-two years and has represented plaintiff’s in litigation in both state and federal courts. Bp concentrates his practice in the areas of Personal Injury, including automobile, motorcycle and 18 wheeler litigation and wrongful death claims as well as civil rights cases. Bp has represented plaintiff’s in all aspects of civil and employment rights including Race and Gender Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Retaliation, Fair Labor Standards Act violations and Racially Hostile Working Environments. Moreover, Bp has represented a number of African American Businesses, Contractors, Vendors and franchisees in cases pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 1981, from the Civil Rights Act of 1866.
Bp had the privilege of representing Jerronzo McCoy, a former employee of Rex Radio and T.V. Mr.McCoy alleged that he was subjected to a racially hostile working environment and was retaliated against his employment when he was terminated for opposing racial discrimination. After a three day jury trial, the jury awarded Mr.McCoy over $1.6 Million Dollars.
Bp served as co-counsel in the historic Ingram et al v. The Coca-Cola Company which was settled for $192.5 Million Dollars. The case also established a “Gold Standard” for diversity in Corporate America as it relates to diversity and glass ceilings which is still a model for settlement of classwide discrimination claims.
Following Coke, Bp represented Kenney Edwards, an African American retired President of John Deere Golf & Turf Division. Mr. Edwards retired from John Deere and attempted to purchase two John Deere dealerships, but was told that he was not qualfied. At the time John Deere had 3100 John Deere Golf & Turf dealerships nationwide, none were African American owned. After filing a complaint in Federal District Court, the parties later reached a confidential settlement.
On April 18, 2012, Bp along with Washington attorney Cyrus Mehri and Nashville attorney George Barrett filed a class action complaint against ABC Television and The Bachelor alleging that the show discriminates against people of color. No one of color has ever held the lead role in the Bachelor or Bachleorette. Following a press advisory and a press conference, this case has sparked a nation wide discussion on interracial dating.
Finally, Bp has represented second season American Idol winner Ruben Studdard since 2003. He most recently represented Studdard in his divorce proceedings. Previously, Bp represented Studdard and 19 Entertainment in litigation against 205 Flava for the misappropriation of Mr. Studdard’s image.