Stacy Johnson-Klein fires back

It was bound to happen: fresnobee.com is reporting that former Fresno State women's basketball coach Stacy Johnson-Klein has filed a cross-appeal in her gender discrimination case against Fresno State, a routine legal step that could lead to an increase in her multi-million dollar judgment.

It's a preventive measure, they say. So, what do you think? Is it the smart move for her?

Johnson-Klein co-counsel Warren Paboojian on Monday filed the cross-appeal in Fresno County Superior Court. He said the filing was necessary to retain his client's legal options.

Johnson-Klein's action was in response to an appeal filed by Fresno State on Feb. 27. The university appealed both the $19.1 million award by a jury in December and Judge Donald S. Black's reduced judgment of $6.6 million in January.

Fresno State wants a new trial. But, Paboojian said Tuesday, the 5th District Court of Appeal could decide Black cut too much, and reinstate part or all of the missing $12.5 million.

California State University lawyer Dawn Theodora, Fresno State's co-counsel in the trial, said Johnson-Klein's cross-appeal is "part of the continuing process."

Fresno State fired Johnson-Klein in March 2005, alleging she violated university policies. Johnson-Klein sued in August 2005, alleging she was harassed and fired for her support of gender equity.