SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A sex discrimination trial that has put a spotlight on gender imbalance in Silicon Valley has prompted some technology and venture capital companies to re-examine their cultures and practices for potential bias.
A jury is set to hear closing arguments on Tuesday in Ellen Pao’s lawsuit against Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.
During the trial, other companies contacted consultants about possible obstacles to women being hired and advancing.
The consultants say a verdict against Kleiner Perkins would likely accelerate that trend.
Jurors will have to decide whether Kleiner Perkins discriminated against Pao because she is a woman and then retaliated when she complained.
They will also have to decide how much money, if any, Pao is awarded in lost wages, bonuses and punitive damages.
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